Instrumentation Development for Cosmic Microwave Background, Dark Matter, and Dark Ages experiments at LBNL
Applications for Spring 2025 are closed for this project.
Our team specializes in the development, production, and evaluation of highly sensitive detectors, antennas, and readout electronics for a diverse range of cosmology experiments. These endeavors capitalize on the extraordinary properties of superconductivity and the principles of microwave engineering. Through the application of these cutting-edge techniques, we are interested in getting insights into the early universe by exploring the Cosmic Microwave Background, unravel the mysteries of the Dark Ages, comprehend the nature of Dark Matter, delve into the physics of neutrinos, and beyond.
Role: 1) Development of cryogenic test setup - student will learn how to design, assemble and use cryogenic apparatus. Cryogenics is a key technology for many fields in physics.
2) Design of superconducting detectors to meet requirement of next generation experiment - Student will explore different detector designs to optimize its performance using 3D EM simulator. Once promising design is identified, we will fabricate proto-type detector. We will then characterize and compare its performance to a simulation. Student will learn microwave engineering, basics of super conductivity and micro-fabrication.
3) Participate in design and test of readout electronics - Student will design high frequency (1 MHz ~ 100 MHz) superconducting electronics for next generation readout. Student will learn how to design, build and test high frequency electronics in cryogenic environment.
Qualifications: Student should want to pursue a physics, engineering physics, or engineering major.
Desirable if student has taken Physics 7B and Physics 110 (A/B), but not required.
Hands on experience with tools are also desirable.
Hours: to be negotiated
Off-Campus Research Site: LBNL, building 50 (Physics Division)
Related website: https://sites.google.com/lbl.gov/asuzuki/home
Mathematical and Physical Sciences