TF ResearchInterests
My research pursues understanding the structure of a nucleon, a proton or neutron using polarized electron probes. My work is based at the Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility (JLab), a Department of Energy lab located in Newport News, Va. Specifically, I am currently involved in measuring the ratio of polarized to unpolarized quarks in the nucleon as a means to discriminate between models of the nucleon and calculation from perturbative Quantum Chromodynamics. I am also leading a measurement of a new fundamental coupling constant () which determines the strength of the weak forces ability to excite a nucleon to its first excited state. The design, construction, and testing of detectors is an indispensable component to my research program that exposes my students to cutting edge technologies used in nuclear physics experiments.