Federal Grant Award Summary

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) received a $900,000 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Division of Physics under the Mathematical and Physical Sciences program (CFDA 47.049), effective July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2028. The award supports fundamental research in nuclear physics conducted at Caltech's Pasadena, California facility, with primary deliverables consisting of precision measurements and scientific findings. Key research products include: (1) precision lifetime measurements of free neutrons using ultracold neutron trapping technology, which will be compared against theoretical calculations to detect potential effects of undiscovered heavy particles on fundamental forces; and (2) experimental measurements of the carbon-helium fusion probability in massive stars, with results applicable to understanding black hole formation and validating observations from gravitational wave detection.

The research employs advanced methodologies including quantum control of neutron spins, cryogenic superconducting magnet operations, and artificial intelligence/machine learning techniques—specifically principal component analysis—to efficiently analyze large datasets and minimize measurement uncertainties. The project integrates undergraduate and graduate student participation, delivering workforce development outcomes in nuclear science and technology with applications spanning medicine, defense, and basic science. The NSF Mathematical and Physical Sciences program, which obligates over $34.57 billion across nearly 79,000 grants and prioritizes strengthening the Nation's scientific enterprise, represents the funding mechanism for this fundamental research initiative.