James Battat

James Battat is a Professor of Physics at Wellesley College, specializing in experimental particle astrophysics. His research focuses on neutrino and dark matter detection, with a particular emphasis on advancing detector technologies for large-scale experiments like the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE). He collaborates with the Q-Pix consortium to develop 3D tracking systems for rare-event detection and works with the APOLLO collaboration on precision lunar laser ranging to test gravitational theories.

Education:

• B.S., Brown University
• M.A., Harvard University
• Ph.D., Harvard University

Research Interests: Experimental particle astrophysics, neutrino oscillations, dark matter detection, gravitational physics, and detector technology development. His work bridges theoretical physics with cutting-edge experimental techniques, such as using LArTPCs for neutrino detection and millimeter-precision lunar laser ranging to constrain gravitational models.

Notable Projects: Leadership in the Q-Pix system for DUNE, APOLLO's tests of the strong equivalence principle, and development of pixel-readout technologies. His research aims to address fundamental questions like the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the Universe and the nature of dark matter.

Teaching: Teaches courses including Classical Mechanics (PHYS207) and Relativity and Quantum Physics (PHYS100), emphasizing hands-on learning and student exploration. He focuses on creating inclusive environments where students engage deeply with physics concepts.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Q-Pix consortium and APOLLO collaboration. His lab develops novel detector systems and contributes to international collaborations in neutrino and gravitational physics.