Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation: Exploring the Nuclear Matter (PING)

Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation: Exploring the Nuclear Matter (PING) is a program that targets both pre-college students and undergraduate students (who serve as mentors). It was launched in 2014 as a collaboration between the National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP) and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in partnership with Associated Universities, Inc.

PING offers three possible experiences

  • A two-week summer exposure to the field of basic and applied nuclear physics with the option of extending into a year-long research experience through the Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation (PING): Exploring the Nuclear Matter at FRIB in East Lansing, Michigan. It was piloted in summer 2019  and has been fully funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF award PHY-2012040) since fall 2020. Participants present their work annually at the NSBP meeting and the American Physical Society Division of Nuclear Physics. Students also work closely with the MoNA Collaboration. 
  • A two-week summer exposure to the field of radio-astronomy through the Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation (PING): Investigating the Cosmos at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia. Participants in this program present their work annually at the NSBP meeting, the National Astronomy Consortium meeting, and the American Astronomical Society.
  • A weekend trip (PEGASUS trips) for undergraduate students to major institutions which addresses preparation and transition to graduate school.

What will we do?

PING is a two-week experience in nuclear physics at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) with the potential to turn into a year-long real research experience. During this time, you will present your work at the National Society of Black Physicists and the American Physical Society Division of Nuclear Physics conferences. 

Why sign up?

  • Conduct college-level research
  • Learn about majors
  • Identify education goals
  • Curate your career plan
  • Create lasting networks
  • Improve time-management skills
  • Learn about agriculture
  • Gain professional presentation skills
  • Tour the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams
  • Participate in a talent show

Past programs

PING 2024 was held 15-27 July 2024. 

Learn more about past PING programs here.

Contact PING

For more information, contact PING at ping@frib.msu.edu.