Making Nuclear Science Accessible

FRIB aims to share the excitement of nuclear science with everyone through innovative and multi-disciplinary collaborations that engage learners of all ages and backgrounds.

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  • 4 February 2026
  • 3:30 EST
 Exploring the Intersection of Astrophysics and Applications Through Statistical Nuclear Physics

Neutron-induced reactions play key roles across nuclear science answering questions from the origin of heavy elements in the Universe to cross section constraints for applications. Reactions on fission products, in particular, are relevant for astrophysical nucleosynthesis, stockpile stewardship, non-proliferation, and nuclear energy. Direct cross section measurements are not presently feasible for short-lived nuclei due to their unstable nature and current lack of a neutron target. Rather neutron-induced cross sections ((n, γ), (n,n’ γ), (n,2n), and so on) rely on statistical nuclear physics inputs and indirect experimental techniques to provide constraints. In this presentation, I will describe recent advances in statistical nuclear physics studies and indirect techniques that can provide experimentally constrained cross sections for astrophysics and applications.
  • 13 February 2026
  • 2:00 EST
 Nuclear physics constraints on the γ-ray signatures of core-collapse supernovae The long-lived γ-ray isotopes observed in supernova remnants serve as direct signatures of the nucleosynthesis processes occurring deep within core-collapse supernovae. However, transforming these observations into a clear understanding of explosion dynamics requires precise nuclear physics input. A prime example is the 13N(α,p)16O reaction, which has been identified as a major nuclear uncertainty affecting the production of observable isotopes such as 44Ti and various neutron-rich iron-group elements. In this talk, I will present a new measurement of the 13N(α,p)16O reaction cross section performed at the CRIB facility (RIKEN). By employing the thick-target inverse kinematics technique with a high-intensity radioactive 13N beam, we probed the astrophysically relevant energy range of Ec.m.≈1.2–5.0 MeV. I will discuss our experimental approach and share preliminary results from this campaign, illustrating how targeted nuclear physics measurements provide the critical data needed to refine nucleosynthesis models. These results are essential for improving the interpretation of current γ-ray data and enabling more accurate predictions for next-generation observatories, ultimately allowing us to use γ-ray signatures as detailed probes of stellar explosion physics. https://www.cenamweb.org/events/online-seminar-series
  • 16 February 2026
  • 11:00 EST
 Ab Initio Nuclear Theory for Physics Beyond the Standard Model Today, physicists build massive detectors to capture the faintest recoils of nuclei colliding with neutrinos and dark matter (DM). These experiments aim to enable high-precision tests of the Standard Model and to search for physics beyond the Standard Model (BSM). To meaningfully interpret such searches, accurate theoretical predictions of neutrino-nucleus and DM-nucleus cross sections are needed. However, these cross sections carry significant uncertainties, primarily because the nucleus is a complex many-body system composed of protons and neutrons held together by the strong force in a nonperturbative regime. Recent advancements in nuclear theory have made substantial progress in calculating nuclear properties and their responses to external electroweak probes. In particular, the use of chiral effective field theory in combination with modern computational tools, often referred to as the ab initio approach, provides the greatest promise for quantifying and reducing nuclear uncertainties. In this talk, I will first present an overview of nuclear response calculations for neutrino-nucleus and DM-nucleus elastic and inelastic scattering. I will then focus on recent progress in ab initio nuclear calculations that are advancing this frontier and enabling new insights into fundamental physics.

FRIB tours

Discover what happens at a rare isotope facility by joining an FRIB tour. Interested members of the public and students from public, homeschool, private, and parochial schools can discover the inner workings of FRIB with a guided tour.

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Learning resources & programs

FRIB offers learning resources and hosts programs for K–12 teachers and students from public, homeschool, private, and parochial schools, designed to inspire curiosity and support hands-on learning.

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FRIB seeks to inspire a love for nuclear science by fostering innovative, cross-disciplinary collaborations that connect with learners of all ages and backgrounds.

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Advanced Studies Gateway

The Advanced Studies Gateway is an initiative at FRIB that brings together researchers, innovators, creative thinkers, artists, and performers from all fields and strengthens ties between Michigan State University and the community. Activities include research workshops as well as public talks, concerts, and special events that are free and open to the public.

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MSUFCU Arts Power Up Arts Residency at FRIB

This residency fosters collaboration, exploration, experimentation and innovation on MSU’s campus, culminating in the creation of artworks at the intersection of art, science, and technology.

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Questions?

For more information about public engagement at FRIB, or to inquire about arranging a tour, contact the FRIB Outreach Coordinator.

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