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Professor of Chemistry & Planetary Sciences
Dr. Channon Visscher serves as professor of chemistry and planetary sciences at Ƶ, teaching courses such as Solar System Astronomy, Introductory Geology, Meteorology and Climate Change, and Principles of Chemistry.
His research interests include modeling of planetary and astrophysical environments, the formation and history of planetary systems, origins stories (cosmologies & cosmogenies), and the relationship between science and religion.
“Our faith provides a framework for studying the physical world, in which a revelatory creation is made as an act of love,” says Visscher. “Through close and attentive scientific inquiry, we can gain meaningful knowledge that not only depends our understanding of the structure and dynamic nature of the world, but also reflects the beauty and majesty of its Creator.”
Motivated by his passion for scientific inquiry, Visscher has published his research in his co-authored book, as well as numerous publications. A full list of his published work can be found at
Prior to Dordt, Visscher served in a postdoctoral fellowship at the Lunar and Planetary Institute in Houston, Texas. He also serves as a research scientist at the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, Colorado. He has served as a research scientist at the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colorado since 2016.
Science and Religion: Perspectives Across Disciplines, ed. by Claudia May and Channon Visscher; an updated list of scientific publications can be found at: (over ~50 peer-reviewed publications here) Some other articles & reflections on science and faith are at:
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Visscher serves on the Faculty Status Committee and the Educational Framework refresh committee at Dordt. He also serves as a mentor for the Astronomy club and often works with Science & Faith club.
Education:
How might ordinary acts of creativity shape a life of faithfulness? By tending our small corners with imagination and generosity, we participate in the on-going work of restoration.
Science and religion are often framed in opposition, yet both explore fundamental questions about creation, purpose, and what it means to be human. How can we cultivate a perspective that recognizes science and faith as mutually enriching ways to explore deeper meaning?
