Explore New Nuclear Science Frontiers

Study and pursue research alongside renowned faculty researchers at a world-leading nuclear science facility. Seek to answer questions like, why do atoms exist? Where did they come from and how were they created? How can we use accelerator technology and related technology to solve society’s problems?

As a Michigan State University (MSU) graduate student at FRIB, you’ll receive an individualized curriculum and conduct unique, hands-on research in nuclear physics, nuclear astrophysics, nuclear chemistry, accelerator physics, or engineering. On average, students graduate half a year faster than the national average, well-prepared for a career in research, academica, industry, governmental agencies and contractors.  

Explore in person? Join the Nuclear Science Summer School (NS3) or Research Experiences for Undergraduate) Programs.

Why FRIB at Michigan State University?

• Top-ranked nuclear physics graduate program in the country
  • Not only have we been a top-ranked in the country for 29 years, we also lead in graduating students with nuclear physics PhDs. Here, you’ll learn and work in a world-leading, state-of-the-art facility to develop crucial skills for research, development, and teamwork in a diverse and inclusive environment. Prepare for a variety of careers utilizing world-class faculty and research.
• Conduct Groundbreaking Research
  • Make impactful contributions to scientific discovery. You’ll work alongside world-renowned faculty mentors conducting hands-on research using the world’s most powerful heavy-ion accelerator as well as state-of-the-art computers and specially designed equipment to make novel discoveries with applications in medicine, national security, and more. Present your findings at national and international conferences to build your network and expand your career options.
• Learn in a Diverse Research Environment
  • Here at FRIB, students and faculty share a common interest—to contribute to society through scientific discovery. To broaden participation in solving science problems, FRIB engages and supports students, faculty, and researchers with diverse backgrounds from all over the world to study and work in a respectful, collaborative, and inclusive environment.
• Enjoy Life Both In and Out of the Lab
  • In addition to exploring your world by conducting research in the lab, we encourage you to also have fun outside of it. Connect with fellow students and scientists on campus in clubs, student organizations, and activities designed for you. And check out the Lansing area's big-city amenities—museums, sporting events, outdoor activities, diverse restaurants, and cultural events—while maintaining a low cost of living and a small-town feel.

Launch Your Career With One of These Exciting Areas of Study

• Nuclear physics and astrophysics
  • Conduct leading-edge research to map the nuclear landscape, to understand the forces that bind nucleons into nuclei, to answer questions about the astrophysical origins of nuclear matter, and to address societal needs related to nuclear science and technology.
• Nuclear chemistry and radiochemistry
  • Probe how nuclear matter assembles itself in systems from nuclei to neutron stars, understand neutron reactions important for homeland security and astrophysics, and provide applications for society, including in medicine and industry.
• Accelerator physics and engineering
  • Leverage world-class instruments, systems, and experts at FRIB—a world-unique opportunity on a university campus—to pursue an in-demand career. Benefit from short- and long-term training and collaboration opportunities at partner Department of Energy national laboratories.
• Cryogenic engineering
  • Train at FRIB on state-of-the-art technologies and advancements in the field to become a next-generation cryogenic-system innovator—a career in high-demand in fundamental research and industrial applications.

Graduate Highly Qualified and In-Demand for a Variety of Careers

With a 100% job placement rate and a nationally recognized academic reputation, you'll be ready for a career as a respected physicist, engineer, or chemist.

Our graduates go on to:

• conduct research at universities, national laboratories, or in industrial settings, paving the way for more innovative discoveries.
• teach at the university level, passing their knowledge and expertise on to the next generation.
• work in government or business, advancing policies and technologies that positively impact the world.