Physics Students Explore Nuclear Research During Internships at Japan’s Osaka University

Under the guidance of their faculty mentor, Dr. Fatiha Benmokhtar, Jacob and Gabriel, respectively, focused on data analysis and software development for nuclear physics experiments. The internships were in partnership with the Jefferson Lab U.S.-Japan exchange program, supported by the Department of Energy.

Jacob, a Pittsburgh native who majors in physics with minors in computer science and mathematics, initially entered Duquesne as an undecided major before he discovered physics. (Most students begin college without a major or change their major at least once. We can help reduce your stress and find your academic path with Discover Science & Engineering!) Reflecting on his choice, Jacob shares, "After touring the department, I quickly met so many students who were incredibly welcoming, along with faculty members who are skilled professors and researchers. I truly think the Duquesne physics department is a hidden gem, and I am so thankful for all they have done for me."

Over the summer, Jacob focused on experimental nuclear physics, designing an experiment to measure the energies of gamma-rays from decaying radionuclides. Specifically, he studied Dysprosium-158, an isotope known for its "deformed nucleus."

He explains, "Measuring these gamma energies gave us insight into the shape and structure of the nucleus. The experiment had us involved within the lab, being responsible for weekly reports, gathering materials and even writing proposals to send to the lab so they can grant us the time we need to actually conduct our experiment and get data.”

"This internship has been exceptionally beneficial for my professional career. It has been eye-opening and a great reminder of what research in physics truly entails. We aren't just treated as interns; we are seen as fellow researchers."

Gabriel, an Ohio native pursuing a dual degree in physics and music, with minors in mathematics and computer science, spent his summer using machine learning to analyze experimentally acquired data. His goal is to increase the overall efficiency of a particle beam for future experiments.

"The work I did this summer helped me become broadly more confident in my future work." Gabe shares. "I’ve made friends and received considerable guidance from my mentor, Dr. Tetsuhiko Yorita."

Gabe reflects on the internship’s role in helping him achieve his goals. "I’ve learned that while physics can be daunting, it is learned. For a long time, I felt like I knew nothing and never would, but this isn’t the case. Pursue your field of interest with passion or a desire for truth and understanding, and the necessary knowledge will fall into place with time."

Gabe is also incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by his mentor, Dr. Benmokhtar. 

 

"Duquesne University's physics program offers a lot of individualized instruction, which is beneficial compared to larger institutions. I've always thrived on specific instruction from faculty rather than learning exclusively from lectures, making Duquesne a great fit for me."

Curious, motivated students studying particle physics are always welcome to join Dr. Benmokhtar's group, and can gain internships at both national and international levels. In 2023, Dr. Benmokhtar connected Jacob and Gabe with an internship at GSI in Germany, where the students developed kinematical fitting methods and user interfaces for tracking and identification of sub-atomic particles. 

"Our Physics department is both small and mighty. Undergraduate students receive excellent mentoring and guidance in research—things typically tougher to get from larger institutions," Dr. Benmokhtar shares. "Internships can be very rewarding: they will help you challenge your intellectual knowledge, expose you to international collaborations and work with big scientists in the field with access to the latest, state-of-the-art technologies.