Casey M. Schwarz completed her PhD in physics at UCF in 2012 under the supervision of Prof. Leonid Chernyak studying the radiation effects of semiconductor transport properties using electron beam induced current and Cathodoluminescence characterization techniques. Schwarz went on to teach at Valencia College in 2012 as an Adjunct Professor of Physics. Schwarz then joined the Kuebler Chemistry and Optics research and Richardson Optical Materials group in spring of 2013 as post-doctoral researcher where she investigated the processing and properties of novel materials (glass-ceramics, polymers, metals, composites) for future optical device applications. Schwarz joined the faculty at Ursinus College in the fall of 2016. Her research interests include 3D direct laser writing of multi-component chalcogenide materials, development and design of optical devices, and optical characterization. The development of optics that function at wavelengths in the infrared (IR) can be used for applications in diagnostic medicine, environmental sensing, space exploration, and search-and-rescue tools. She is also very active in her outreach activities which include mentoring high school and undergraduate students and participating in promotion of women in science events and organizations.