Dr. Brianna Mount
Associate Professor of Physics at Black Hills State University (BHSU) and Director of the BHSU Underground Campus
When building super sensitive detectors, particle physicists require that materials be extremely radio-pure. As the director of the BHSU Underground Campus on the 4850 Level of SURF, Dr. Brianna Mount manages the assay, or testing, of materials to be used for such experiments.
Mount is especially dedicated to creating student experiences in physics. She does this through her leadership roles in programs including the following: the BHSU Underground Science Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, the NSF REU Physics Leadership Group, the BHSU GEMADARC summer program, the BHSU Underground Robotics Competition, the BHSU APS Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics (CUWiP) and the National Organizing Committee for CUWiP.
“I love the adventure of going a mile underground and working on experiments that explore the biggest questions in physics,” Mount said. “When the thrill lags, there's always new students to take underground and they revitalize the adventure for you. To help start students on their own adventure and watch their careers grow is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my job.”
