Physics 437: general projects in physics

Stefan Idziak
PHY 250 ext. 5580

Instrumentation design and development

This project would involve the design and construction of an automated experiment. The mechanical, electronic, and computer interface components of the experiment would all be addressed. An example of a project would be to use Labview to design an automated powder x-ray data collection system.

Kam Tong Leung
Chemistry 2 066C ext. 5826

Computer interfacing for a multiplex electron coincidence experiment

This project primarily involves software development for a coincidence electron spectrometer involving position sensitive detectors. The student will be part of a team seeking to perform the first "complete" experiment on differential cross section measurements of fundamental molecular processes induced by electron impact. The student will be given the responsibility to integrate computer control into the experiment. He or she is expected to acquire highly job-relevant technical skills, including all aspects of process control (such as stepper motors, A/D, D/C, counting routines, etc.), machine-level programming, and fast electronics.

Some programming experience will be very useful. A course in quantum mechanics and/or atomic physics will help to understand the basic physics of e scatting and electron excitation.

More information on this and other on-going projects in Professor Leung's group is available online.