Following a successful pilot in 2025, Rice University’s DUNE Training ExperienCe recently completed its second year. This Department of Energy-funded initiative invites undergraduates from across the country to apply for the DUNE-TECH undergraduate program, which includes training at their local institution followed by a one-week camp at Rice, where students learn about DUNE, the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment, the most ambitious neutrino experiment in the United States.
“DUNE-TECH is about setting up the future of neutrino physics,” said Aaron Higuera, assistant research professor of physics and astronomy at Rice and the principal investigator for DUNE-TECH. “The students in our classrooms today will be leading the DUNE experiment in the future.”
Students started the week with a deep dive into the physics of neutrinos, the second most abundant particle in the universe. DUNE uses neutrino detectors at South Dakota’s Sanford Underground Research Facility, which measure a high-intensity underground neutrino beam sent 1,300 kilometers from the neutrino source at Fermilab in Illinois. This data can be used to answer questions related to the neutrino oscillation phenomenon and fundamental questions of the universe.
“Programs like this help students get started in research that can feel intimidating,” said Lisa Koerner, a professor of physics at the University of Houston, who gave a lecture on DUNE’s physics program. “It’s great to see the students asking questions, working together and building a foundation for their career.”
Once students were grounded in neutrino physics, they learned about the tools used to analyze data produced by DUNE. Since most of the analysis is done using software, including AI and machine learning tools, the second half of the week involves learning how to code and analyze data.
“One of my goals is to develop my programming skills,” said Olivia Ba, a rising sophomore and physics major at Texas State University who wants to pursue a doctorate in nuclear physics. She said she was impressed by the prereadings, lectures and one-on-one learning opportunities.
Annabel Ohman, a rising junior at Rice, said she was equally impressed with the program. “I’m learning how to code,” she said. “I’m seeing physics in action and networking.”
Seeing students take these steps towards a career in physics is particularly meaningful to Higuera this year.
“I want to dedicate the 2026 DUNE-TECH session to Dr. Richard A. Tapia, who recently passed,” Higuera said. “His mentorship created many pathways for underrepresented groups in STEM. DUNE-TECH is honored to be continuing that work."