Drexel physics major Alyssa Luby recently presented her research on the Beam Lifetime (BL3) Experiment at the Kaczmarczik Science Fair. She is now preparing for her next presentation at the Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Support (ASURS) symposium on April 28. The donor-funded ASURS program promotes hands-on involvement in research and scholarly activities for undergraduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences. 

Luby’s research, which began as a summer internship under the mentorship of Professor of Physics Charles Lane, PhD, is focused on the slow control system of the BL3 apparatus, which manages its electronics. The experiment itself aims to measure neutron lifetime with greater accuracy than existing technology allows. She has played a key role in this process, designing the schematic, building a breadboard sample, finalizing the PCB layout, submitting it for fabrication and later testing and soldering the prototype. 

Over the summer, Luby's research was funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). This funding covered the construction of a new magnet, proton trap and detector systems for the experiment. Once fully assembled, the apparatus will be housed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), where the experiment will take place. Throughout the academic year, Luby’s continued research has been supported by ASURS. 

Beyond her research, Luby is actively involved in the Drexel community. She plays on the women's rugby team, serves as the treasurer of the Women in Physics Society and is a dedicated member of the Society of Physics Students. Additionally, she created her own co-op position at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), one of only 17 national laboratories in the United States that specializes in plasma physics. 

Luby’s ultimate goal is to contribute to nuclear fusion research as a means of developing a cleaner, more sustainable energy source. Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear fusion does not produce carbon emissions and is vastly more efficient. "One kilogram of fusion fuel can generate the same amount of energy as ten million kilograms of fossil fuels," according to the UK Atomic Energy Authority.  

Her passion for environmental activism stems from childhood experiences with her grandfather. "Once a week after middle school, my grandfather and I would drive around the neighborhood to pick up trash and attend town meetings. He taught me how to be an activist and nurtured my love for science and the environment," she recalled. 

Reflecting on her journey, Luby is confident in her decision to attend Drexel. "My research gives me the experience I need to prepare for my career while also reassuring me that I’m on the right path. I love my work, and it’s genuinely a pleasure to contribute to these experiments," she said. She credits Drexel with providing her with opportunities and connections that have shaped her academic and professional future. To learn more about Alyssa Luby's research, and other undergraduate research in the College of Arts and Sciences, visit the ASURS symposium on April 28 in the Bossone Research Enterprise Center from 5-7 p.m.