In the lab and beyond
A few moments from my work: building experiments, giving talks and spending time with collaborators.
Select a photograph to view it full size, or explore the research behind the images.
Kyle Leach receiving the 2025 Francis M. Pipkin Award at the APS Global Physics Summit. Photo: Edward Carreon.
Examining a sample with a scanning electron microscope. Detailed imaging helps us inspect the small structures used in precision detector work.
Together at the experimental controls: detector signals, data-acquisition settings and the measurement system in view.
Hands-on preparation of the cryogenic detector system, with the laboratory controls and readout electronics alongside the apparatus.
Working on the cryostat connections during laboratory preparation.
Preparing experimental hardware in protective clothing. Careful handling is part of the work behind each measurement.
Handling a small detector chip during laboratory preparation. The delicate device must be mounted and connected before it can be used in an experiment.
A close look at a gold-plated detector mount used to support the sensor inside the cryogenic measurement system.
Natsumi Taniuchi receiving a Best Poster Award at Neutrino 2024 for her Super-Kamiokande proton-decay search.
A superconducting detector chip on a fingertip: a sense of scale for the small sensors at the heart of our precision measurements.
A detector array mounted in its gold-plated carrier, with fine wire connections linking the sensor to the readout electronics.
Close-up of a multi-pixel superconducting detector array. The individual sensing elements and their wire connections are visible in the mounting frame.
Presenting a study of weak-decay rates in neutron-deficient nuclei by Matthew Martin and Kyle Leach.
Protective clothing and equipment for hands-on work in the experimental hall.
Following a measurement from the control room, where the team monitors detector signals, data collection and the status of the experiment.
A discussion around the laboratory workbench: planning the next steps and working through the practical details together.
A visit to an accelerator hall, with the large pressure vessel and associated beamline hardware in the background.
Kyle Leach presenting at the 28th International Nuclear Physics Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2022. Photo: Robert Bellon.
Beamline apparatus and its control electronics, showing the vacuum hardware, cabling and instrumentation that support precision nuclear measurements.
Inside the cryogenic detector system: thermal stages, wiring and mechanical supports exposed during laboratory preparation.
Celebrating Jon Ringuette’s doctoral defense on nuclear excitation via electron capture in an electron beam ion trap.
A visit inside large experimental apparatus, showing the scale of the surrounding coils, cables and support structure.
Time together away from the laboratory: colleagues sharing a meal and conversation.
Discussing detector-readout development for the BeEST experiment during a conference poster session.
A small sensor mounted on its cylindrical holder. The close-up shows the scale of the device and the care needed during handling.
Making a hands-on adjustment at the beamline, beside the racks of control electronics.
A view into the detector housing, showing the internal mounting plate and electrical connections.
Explaining the research during a poster session, with time for questions and discussion about the measurements.
Students and researchers together at a poster session, sharing the work beyond the laboratory.
Discussion at Neutrino 2024 in Milan, Italy, bringing together researchers working across neutrino physics.
Conversation at a conference gala: a chance to meet colleagues beyond the scientific sessions. Photo: Robert Bellon.
An informal group photograph outdoors, with colleagues taking a break from laboratory life.
Kyle Leach presenting at an APS Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics meeting in Orlando, Florida.
Working through ideas at the laboratory bench, with notes and a laptop close at hand.
Kyle Leach at the presentation of the 2025 Francis M. Pipkin Award during the APS Global Physics Summit. Photo: Edward Carreon.
The cryogenic detector assembly outside its vacuum enclosure, revealing the thermal stages, supports and wiring needed for low-temperature measurements.
Monitoring an accelerator experiment from the control room, where beam settings and measurement systems are tracked throughout a run.
Experimental samples in a machined holder, with separate positions for mounting and alignment.
The BeEST experimental apparatus, including the cryogenic detector system and racks of signal-readout electronics.
A team photograph beside the cryogenic detector system and its readout electronics, with a measured spectrum on the monitor.
A close-up of the vacuum chamber and beamline assembly, with its viewing window, motorized feedthrough and vacuum instrumentation.
CONTACT
Philomena Abakah
Senior Program Officer – Research and Lab Operations
p.abakah@queensu.ca