Engineering

Engineering at Fermilab

At Fermilab engineers are essential to our vision which is to solve the mysteries of matter, energy, space and time for the benefit of all.

 

“Fermilab engineers take on an incredibly diverse array of challenges, on projects with systems that operate from deep underground to outer space.”

– Chris Mossey, chief engineer and deputy director for the LBNF Project

Spanning the scale from neutrinos to supernovas the physics experiments at Fermilab frequently require engineers to employ cutting-edge technologies. The unique and challenging requirements of high energy physics experiments present engineers with a diverse set of design problems that often require special solutions. These challenges drive engineers and technicians to build, test, repair and upgrade the machines and systems that Fermilab scientists rely upon as they seek the ultimate scientific goal: a complete understanding of the laws of nature and the cosmos.Successful construction and operation of an accelerator complex involves a huge and varied effort on the part of Fermilab engineers. The cutting-edge technology of our accelerators, experimental facilities, and detectors offer unique engineering challenges.

Civil and environmental engineers are instrumental in site selection and planning major underground construction projects and building infrastructure.

Mechanical engineers design, build, and test accelerator components such as superconducting resonant cavities to accelerate particle beams and powerful magnets to focus and steer the particles down the beamline to a target or detector. From conception to installation, mechanical engineers have a hand in most machines, facilities, and support systems at Fermilab.

Cryogenic engineers design the systems to keep accelerator components thermally stable a mere few degrees above absolute zero. Our newest detectors require massive amounts of argon to detect neutrinos and maintain purity.

Electrical and computer engineers may design the silicon modules which make up the particle detector, and also design the trigger and data acquisition systems which process detector data at rates on the order of terabits per second and readout the most “interesting” collisions in real time.

Environmental and industrial engineers ensure that Fermilab maintains a safe working environment for our employees and that our site works within all applicable environmental regulations. They also help the lab set standards and goals for sustainability, which includes being more environmentally friendly.

Engineering physics is a specialized area of engineering that integrates all of the above disciplines to effectively coordinate installation or operations of an accelerator.

At Fermilab engineers are essential to our vision which is to solve the mysteries of matter, energy, space and time for the benefit of all.

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