Simulation and Lab Work for Studies of Nuclear Beta Decay

Join us in studying the most fundamental particles in the universe via the radioactive decay of nuclei! We probe the limits of our current understanding of the fundamental picture of the universe presented in the Standard Model via nuclear beta decay. In particular, we use ion traps, which use electric and magnetic fields to confine charged particles in free space, to transport, manipulate and hold radioactive nuclei produced at the Nuclear Science Laboratory (NSL) to ultimately study the mechanics of their decay.

The Superallowed Transition BEta NEutrino Decay Ion Coincidence Trap (St. Benedict) facility is currently under construction at the NSL, and we have a number of different facets we are looking for students to contribute to. Robust simulations of ion transport, dynamics and decay are needed, and encompass a swath of languages; regardless of your previous coding experience, we'll have a simulation project ready to tailor to you! We have a large body of hands-on work in lab, including tuning ion beams, building circuits, construction beamlines, and much more.

If you're interested in any aspect of our research efforts, regardless of your experience or background, please join us at St. Benedict!

Name of research group, project, or lab
The Brodeur Group w/ St. Benedict
Why join this research group or lab?

Our project opportunities are varied in scope, and can be flexed to fit what you might be looking for. Hours and commitment time are also flexible; we will work with you to create something optimized to what you're looking for!

Summer research opportunities are available to continue your work. Opportunities to fully integrate into our research group, via attending group meetings and assisting during experimental beamtimes, are available.

Our group consists of multiple faculty members and students who are all ready to work with you; you'll be joining a lively group of research peers!

Representative publication
Logistics Information:
Project categories
Physics & Astronomy
Research at the Nuclear Science Laboratory
Student ranks applicable
First Year
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Student qualifications

While previous experience in physics and coding is useful, it is by no means required. All we ask is for an excitement and willingness to learn!

Hours per week
1 credit / 3-6 hours
2 credits / 6-12 hours
3 credits / 12+ hours
Compensation
Research for Credit
Paid - General
Paid - Work-Study Required
Unpaid - Volunteer
Number of openings
2
Techniques learned

Coding (multiple languages) and simulation skills, and various techniques in experimental nuclear physics

Project start
Whenever you are available
Contact Information:
Mentors
wporter@nd.edu
Ph.D Student
rzite@nd.edu
Graduate Student
Name of project director or principal investigator
Maxime Brodeur
Email address of project director or principal investigator
mbrodeur@nd.edu
2 sp. | 0 appl.
Hours per week
1 credit / 3-6 hours (+2)
1 credit / 3-6 hours2 credits / 6-12 hours3 credits / 12+ hours
Project categories
Research at the Nuclear Science Laboratory (+1)
Physics & AstronomyResearch at the Nuclear Science Laboratory