Small-angle Neutron Scattering Studies of Metastable Vortex Lattice Domains

The Eskildsen Superconductivity and Vortex Lattice Group at the University of Notre Dame uses scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) to study the unique properties of vortices that form in type-II superconductors. My particular research has investigated the kinematics of non-equilibrium vortex lattice domain transitions in MgB2.

Optical Tweezers

Single beam gradient-force optical traps, or laser tweezers, are useful for manipulating small particles, molecules, and biological specimens like cells or bacteria.  The optical tweezers use the Gaussian distribution of a laser beam to create a negative radiation pressure. Similar to Bernoulli’s Principle, this pressure results in a restoring force, trapping small particles in the center of the beam.

Hazards of Flight Deck Illumination

This research was an interdisciplinary project between the Physics and Aviation Departments; it addressed the increasingly widespread problem of laser beams striking the windshield of an in-flight aircraft.  Specifically, the power of the flight deck illumination was quantified through power readings and used to determine the risk of eye damage or temporary flash blindness to the pilot and other crew members.  

Modeling Particle Interactions with G4Beamline

Physicists use particle colliders like those found at Fermilab and CERN to study subatomic particles.  In order to be successful, these experiments must reduce the particle background that interferes with the desired signal.  G4Beamline can be used to optimize the detector shielding that helps reduce this background and protect sensitive detector components.  G4Beamline can also be used to simulate archetypical modern physics experiments like Compton Scattering for use in the classroom.

Detecting Primary Cosmic Rays

Cosmic rays are electrons and nuclei of atoms (the majority of which are hydrogen) that approach the Earth from all directions at velocities close to the speed of light. The precise origins of galactic cosmic rays are unknown.  Our goal was to develop a prototype payload for the CALET mission that would be capable of distinguishing between hydrogen and helium primary cosmic rays.