Events

Physics & Astronomy Colloquium: Ben Margalit, UMN

Title: Cosmic Fireworks and the Physics they Reveal

Abstract: Advances in time-domain and multi-messenger astronomy provide a fresh view of the dynamic Universe and herald a new era in astrophysics. Through gravitational waves and across the electromagnetic spectrum, explosive astrophysical phenomena hold enormous potential as probes of extreme physics and cosmic scales. In this talk I will give an overview of recent developments in time-domain astronomy. Focusing on neutron star mergers as a frontier research area, I will demonstrate how transients can be harnessed to study fundamental open questions with far-reaching implications. I will conclude by briefly discussing the future of the field and the opportunities ahead.

School of Physics & Astronomy Colloquium: Michael Wilking, UMN

Title: The Search for CP Violation in Neutrinos

Abstract: The standard model of particle physics, formulated in the 1970's, was a tremendous achievement that unified 3 of the 4 known forces, was consistent with all known terrestrial phenomena, and successfully predicted the existence of the as-yet-undiscovered final pieces of the theory (top quark, tau neutrino, and the higgs boson). However, in 1998, it was discovered that neutrinos have a small, but non-zero, mass, which is not naturally predicted by the standard model. This discovery suggests very interesting new physics phenomena, particularly if Charge-Parity (CP) violation is discovered in leptons. This talk will review the status of the search for CP violation in leptons, and the plans for the next-generation Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE).

Physics Force 2024 Northrop Shows

Physics Force is back with exhilarating new shows in Jan 2024. These theater productions feature big demos—with physicists dropping from the air and lightning being controlled through science—and they never disappoint! The wonders of physics are brought to life in an educational and spectacular display. Intended for all ages, Physics Force hopes to bring the wonders of physics and science to all.

For ticketing information, please visit Northrop Auditorium's event page

University Closed: New Year's Day

Happy New Year

University Closed

Closed for Christmas holiday

University Closed

Closed for Christmas holiday

No Colloquium: Study Day

No Colloquium this week. Check back in January for more events!

Public Observing Night

Presenters: Nico Adams, Stella Christensen, Emma de Bruin, and Cristina Andrade

Observe some of the same celestial objects that have inspired the sky-gazers throughout history. Presented by knowledgeable and passionate astronomy graduate students!

8pm | Presentation | Tate Hall Room B50
8:30pm | Telescope observation, if weather permits | RM 510

Colloquium: Dr. Daniela Calzetti, UMASS Amherst

Abstract: Dust represents about 0.1% of the mass in baryons in galaxies today, yet it has a disproportionate impact on their physics and appearance. I will briefly discuss measurements of dust and dust effects in galaxies at different cosmic distances, and highlight what we understand and where the challenges and unknowns currently are. Recent observations from the recently launched James Webb Space Telescope are paving the way for answering some of the remaining questions.

FTPI Workshop: Muons in Minneapolis

Muons in Minneapolis workshop will bring together theorists and experimentalists to explore future opportunities to utilize muons in the search for new physics. In this workshop, we hope to expand on ongoing efforts to probe the muon sector, as well as discuss possible new directions. Topics covered in this workshop will include:

Nick Kruegler, smiling wearing glasses and a flannel shirt

Kruegler receives NASA FINESST Fellowship

Third-year physics graduate student Nick Kruegler has been selected to receive the Future Investigators in NASA Earth and Space Science and Technology (FINESST) fellowship. This award will support

Lysak featured on public radio

Professor Robert Lysak of the School of Physics and Astronomy was recently featured on Minnesota public radio talking about why the northern lights have been more visible this year.

Pribiag receives prestigious $1.25M physics investigators award

School of Physics and Astronomy Associate Professor Vlad Pribiag is one of only 19 researchers nationwide to receive a prestigious five-year, $1.25 million Experimental Physics Investigators award

Alumni in Memorian: Dr. Donovan Bakalyar

Dr. Donovan Bakalyar, Ph.D physics, 2023

Four new CSE department heads begin in 2024-25

Professor James Kakalios of the School of Physics and Astronomy was one of four new department heads named by CSE Dean Andrew Alleyne. These new department heads bring a wealth of academic, research

Shifman named Regents Professor

Professor Mikhail “Misha” Shifman of the School of Physics and Astronomy and the Willliam I. Fine Theoretical Physics Institute has been named a University of Minnesota Regents Professor.