About
Dr. Douglas Bergman is a Professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Utah. His research focuses on ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs), including their detection via fluorescence and Cherenkov radiation. He leads the Cosmic Ray Group and has contributed to major projects like the Telescope Array (TA), its extension TALE, and the planned NICHE array. Dr. Bergman previously held roles at Rutgers University, including Assistant and Associate Professor positions before joining the University of Utah in 2009. He specializes in extensive air shower reconstruction and Monte Carlo modeling, developing tools like the TRUMP simulation code.
Education:
- PhD in Physics, Yale University (1997)
- AB in Physics, University of Chicago (1989)
Research interests include cosmic ray propagation, energy-loss effects, and interdisciplinary methods combining particle physics with atmospheric science. His work spans detector design (e.g., fluorescence telescopes, Cherenkov arrays) and collaborative experiments like HiRes and KTeV. Current projects explore low-energy thresholds and shower universality models.
Teaching:
- PHYS 3730: Intro to Computing in Physics
- PHYS 3610: Electronics for Scientific Instrumentation
- PHYS 3719: Undergraduate Lab
- PHYS 3740: Intro to Quantum Theory and Relativity
Labs/Teams: Active contributor to the Telescope Array Collaboration and TALE project, with involvement in the Cosmic Ray Group's observational campaigns in Utah's deserts.
