Dave Besson

Dave Besson is a Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Kansas, where he has held positions since 1990, including Assistant (1993-1996), Associate (1997-2001), and full Professor (2001–present). He earned a PhD in Physics from Rutgers University (1986) and a BS in Physics from Columbia University (1979). His research focuses on experimental high energy and astroparticle physics, particularly detecting ultra-high energy cosmic rays via radio-wave emissions or radar reflections, including projects involving Antarctic balloon experiments. He has collaborated with the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPhI) on silicon photomultiplier applications and Belle/Belle-II experiments for anomalous charmed baryon studies. Funded by NSF, NASA, Fulbright, and CRDF, he emphasizes student collaborations as the driving force behind his research.

• Education
  • PhD in Physics, Rutgers University, 1986
  • BS in Physics, Columbia University, 1979
• Research
  • Ultra-high energy cosmic ray detection (radio/reflective methods)
  • Medical and astrophysical applications of silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs)
  • Anomalous charmed baryon correlations via Belle/Belle-II experiments
  • Antarctic high-altitude balloon experiments
  • Quantum-resistant detector design for particle accelerators
• Funding
  • National Science Foundation (NSF)
  • NASA
  • Cottrell Research Corporation
  • Civilian Research Defense Fund (CRDF)
  • Fulbright Foundation
  • Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPhI)
  • University of Kansas and State of Kansas
• Awards
  • Latin Award, Metuchen High School (1979)
  • All-County Wrestling, Middlesex Co. (1979)
  • Top 25 Unsigned Bands, Rolling Stone Magazine (1993)
  • CLEO Collaboration Analysis Coordinator (1990-1993)
  • First Place, Race Around the World, South Pole (2004)
• Collaborations
  • Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPhI)
  • Belle and Belle-II experiments
  • Fulbright Foundation
  • Civilian Research Defense Fund (CRDF)