Peter Mueller

Peter Mueller is an experimental physicist at Argonne National Laboratory's Physics Division where he serves as Principal Physicist since 2018, and holds an Affiliate Assistant Professor appointment at the University of Washington since 2012. His research program bridges fundamental nuclear physics with practical environmental applications through advanced laser spectroscopy techniques.

Dr. Mueller's academic background includes:

• Dr. rer. nat. (PhD) in Physics from Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany (2003)
• Dipl. Phys. from Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany (1996)

His research focuses on precision tests of fundamental symmetries through measurements of electric dipole moments, nuclear structure studies via laser spectroscopy of rare isotopes, and ultra-sensitive trace-isotope analysis. He has extensive experience with neutral atom traps and significantly contributed to developing Atom Trap Trace Analysis (ATTA) for environmental applications. As lead-PI of Argonne's TRACER Center, he advances krypton dating technology for groundwater and glacial ice analysis across million-year timescales.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trajectory from fundamental physics investigations toward practical environmental applications, particularly using krypton-81 for groundwater dating. His work demonstrates how precision measurement techniques solve critical problems in hydrology and climate science, with increasing emphasis on million-year timescale environmental tracing.

Dr. Mueller's scientific contributions have earned significant recognition:

• Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (2011)
• DOE Office of Science Early Career Research Award (2011)
• IUPAP Young Scientist Prize in Nuclear Physics (2010)
• Willard Frank Libby Postdoctoral Fellowship (2005)

As lead-PI of the TRACER Center, Dr. Mueller directs major research initiatives supported by DOE funding, including his Early Career Research Award. His University of Washington affiliation indicates active graduate student mentorship, though specific advisees aren't listed in available materials. His research connects with Argonne's Advanced Photon Source and other National User Facilities.

Dr. Mueller leads the Low Energy Physics group's efforts in Atom Trap Trace Analysis within Argonne's Physics Division. The TRACER Center represents a major interdisciplinary collaboration bringing together nuclear physicists, hydrologists, and environmental scientists to develop practical dating techniques for water resource management. His work integrates fundamental physics with real-world environmental challenges through advanced measurement science.