August 12, 2021 Press Release: Upton Applauds National Science Foundation Grant for Western Michigan University
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The department of physics at WMU has a long history of probing questions of fundamental nuclear physics. Nuclear astrophysics covers the topic of the rapid neutron-capture process, known as the r-process. Rapid neutron captures can be used to synthesize heavy elements. Physicists use the r-process to understand how heavy elements are quickly assembled in supernova formation. Drs. Zbigniew Chajecki and Mike Famiano received a nearly half million dollar grant to continue their studies towards understanding the physics of the neutron stars, supernovae and other astrophysical objects.
Earlier successful experimentation by Drs. Chajecki and Famiano resulted the creation of the Veto Wall, several publications, invited talks and new collaborations. This three year project will probe an equation of pressure versus density (EOS) of neutron stars, apply chemical potential scaling to predict neutron spectra, use exotic beams to measure fission barriers, and study the nucleus of mercury. The experiments will be performed primarily at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University, at RIKEN Laboratory in Japan, and locally using the Accelerator at WMU.
Dr. Chajecki and Dr. Famiano will provide direct training to both undergraduate and graduate students in a wide range of skills and techniques, preparing them for challenging and important careers in STEM fields and industry. An important part of the project involves scientific outreach through the talks on nuclear astrophysics to Jr. High students in the Kalamazoo area.

Principal Investigator
