PHYS 125: Particle Physics at CERN Switzerland

PHYS 125 (4 credits)

Particle Physics at CERN

2.5 weeks on campus, 10 days in Switzerland

Professor Irinia Mazilu

This course will introduce students to basic theoretical and phenomenological concepts of the structure of matter at the atomic and nuclear level. The students will learn about the fundamental particles and their interactions in the context of the groundbreaking experiments that are underway at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research), the world's leader in particle physics research and the host of the Large Hadron Collider. This course will include traditional lectures as well as seminar-type workshops and computational projects. The course will culminate with a ten-day trip to Switzerland. We will visit several of the center's major experiments, tour the particle accelerator facilities and explore the numerous interactive exhibits. We will also participate in outreach programs offered by the University of Geneva and will visit the UN and other cultural sites in Geneva and Bern.

This course qualifies as FDR (SC) and has no prerequisites.

Program Fee (paid to W&L): $1,200. This includes accommodation and a consultant fee ($50).

Estimated Other Expenses: Airfare - $1,300; 4-day Youth Swiss Travel Pass (covers all travel outside of Geneva and all museum costs) - $250; SIM card - $50; Meals - $700.

For further details, please contact Professor Irina Mazilu at mazilui@wlu.edu.