CETUP* 2025

Jun 9, 2025, 2:00 AM → Jul 12, 2025, 5:00 PM US/Mountain

Lead/Deadwood Middle School

Barbara Szczerbinska (Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi), Bhaskar Dutta (Texas A&M University), Jaret Heise (SDSTA/SURF), K.S Babu (Oklahoma State University), Louie Strigari (Texas A&M University)

CETUP* 2025

The Institute for Underground Science at SURF hosts the Center for Theoretical Underground Physics and Related Areas workshop, located in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. 

 

CETUP* Mission:

To promote organized research in physics, cosmology and astrophysics, geoscience, and other fields related to science done in underground laboratories worldwide via individual and collaborative research in a dynamic atmosphere of intense scientific interactions.

 

Why CETUP*: 

With over 20 underground laboratories around the world hosting experiments in nuclear and particle physics, astrophysics, cosmology, and geosciences, there is a growing global interest in underground science. The Center for Theoretical Underground Physics and Related Areas (CETUP*) responds to this need by bringing together scientists from various disciplines, both theoretical and experimental, at its annual workshop.

 

CETUP* creates an inclusive, stimulating environment that promotes creative thinking and open discussions. Researchers from different backgrounds, experience levels, and countries collaborate to address critical questions in fundamental research. This collaborative spirit helps to nurture the next generation of scientists while driving progress in multiple fields.

 

Since 2011, CETUP* has taken place in the breathtaking Black Hills of South Dakota, nestled in the historic towns of Lead and Deadwood, near the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF)—the deepest underground lab in the U.S. This stunning location, enriched by deep Native American cultural and historical roots, offers a truly unique and inspiring backdrop for our workshop.

 

NOTE:  Up to two weeks of lodging and a modest per diem will be provided. There is no registration fee for CETUP* participants, however, registration is required.  

Previous Workshops:

• CETUP* 2024: Dark Matter, Neutrino Physics
• CETUP* 2023: Dark Matter, Neutrino Physics
• CETUP* 2016: Physics and Instrumentation of the Near Detector for the Long-Baseline Neutrino Experiment, From Grand Unification to String Theory and Back, Dark Matter
• CETUP* 2015: Dark Matter, Neutrino Physics (nuclear and particle physics), Particle Physics and Cosmology
• CETUP* 2014: Neutrino Interactions, Systematic Uncertainties, Near Detector Physics
• CETUP* 2013: Dark Matter, Neutrino Physics, Astrophysics, Particle Physics and Cosmology
• CETUP* 2012: Dark Matter, Neutrino Physics, Grand Unification
• CETUP* 2011: Geo-neutrinos, Neutrino Physics, Grand Unification

1. Video About The Institute at SURF

2. The Institute at SURF website

3. Video About SURF

4. Video of things to do in the Black Hills area

5. Neutrino Day 2024 recap video

SURF website

Monday, June 9

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Dark Matter Workshop Welcome, Important Updates, Helpful Resources, and Group Photo

Speaker: Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

9:30 AM → 9:45 AM SURF and The Institute for Underground Science Overview and Update

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM Break

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaborations, and Lunch

Lunch provided at the Middle School.

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Tuesday, June 10

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM Break

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:30 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch provided at the Middle School.

2:30 PM → 3:15 PM TALK: TBD

3:15 PM → 4:30 PM Discussions and Collaborations

5:00 PM → 6:30 PM CETUP* BBQ Dinner - workshop participants, families and staff invited!

Wednesday, June 11

8:30 AM → 9:00 AM Travel to Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center (via SURF shuttle)

The SURF shuttle will pick participants up at the Hampton Inn Lead hotel and travel to the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center. Accompanying family/friends are welcome to join and take the shuttle to the Visitor Center.

9:00 AM → 10:00 AM Deeper Talks: SURF Seminar Series (CETUP* speaker)

The Institute for Underground Science and SURF is proud of its researcher community and this series aims to strengthen the sense of intellectual community. It provides a platform for researchers to discuss their work, share insights, and foster interdisciplinary connections.

Topic and Speaker(s) to be determined

10:00 AM → 10:30 AM Travel to Ethnobotanical Garden at SURF (via SURF shuttle)

The SURF shuttle will pick participants up at the Visitor Center (front entrance) and travel to the Ethnobotanical Garden at SURF. Accompanying family/friends are welcome to join and take the shuttle to the Visitor Center.

10:30 AM → 11:30 AM Guest Speaker at Ethnobotanical Garden

11:30 AM → 12:00 PM Travel to Lead/Deadwood Middle School (via SURF shuttle)

12:00 PM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch provided at the Middle School.

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 3:00 PM Break

3:00 PM → 3:45 PM TALK: TBD

3:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Thursday, June 12

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch will be provided at the Middle School

1:00 PM → 2:30 PM Communicating with Media/General Public

Guest Science Journalist and SURF Communications Team: Ann Metli and Mike Ray

(plus 3 minute challenge)

2:30 PM → 3:15 PM TALK: TBD

3:15 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

8:00 PM → 10:00 PM Pub Talk + Trivia (prizes awarded)

CETUP* participant talk and physics trivia related to Dark Matter (prizes awarded)

Friday, June 13

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, Lunch

Lunch not provided. Please use per diem cards.

1:00 PM → 2:00 PM CETUP Science Walk and Discussion

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Saturday, June 14

9:00 AM → 1:00 PM Crazy Horse Memorial and Indian University of North America Visit and Meet Students

DATE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

More information to follow (Limited availability)

Monday, June 16

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Dark Matter Workshop Welcome, Important Updates, Helpful Resources, and Group Photo

Speaker: Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

9:30 AM → 9:45 AM SURF and The Institute for Underground Science Overview and Update

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM Break

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch provided at the Middle School.

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Tuesday, June 17

8:45 AM → 9:00 AM REMINDER: SURF UNDERGROUND TOUR DAY - pick at 9:00 a.m. MT

Participants going on the underground tour will follow this schedule. Participants not going on the tour will have other activities to participate in at the Middle School. More information will follow.

Those not going on the underground tour will have the option to attend a Hoist Room tour.

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Pickup at Hampton Inn and Travel to SURF for Underground Tour (via SURF shuttle)

Underground Tour participants (please read below)

If you are a foreign national, you will be required to show your passport before going underground and complete a SURF Access Request Form.

Anyone entering the underground must be 18 years or older, must complete safety training, and sign an Acknowledgement of Risk and Release, Agreement Not to Sue and Waiver.

Temperatures are in the low- to mid-70s on the 4,850-foot level.

SURF will provide personal protective equipment (coveralls, hardhats, cap lamps, safety glasses, etc.). For safety purposes, we require tour guests to wear clothing that is appropriate at a construction site: full-length pants or jeans, shirt with sleeves (at least ¼ length) and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and socks. Restrooms are available underground. Cameras are welcome.

Your underground visit may require walking up to one mile, sometimes over uneven ground. All those who are going underground must be able to perform the following activities:

Don and wear the required PPE.
Don and use a self-rescuer.
Walk in both warm/hot and humid conditions.
Walk across uneven or slippery surfaces for distances in excess of one mile.
Tolerate standing in very close proximity to others while riding in the personnel cage.
Tolerate changes in elevation.
Recognize and respond to emergency signals and signs (visual, auditory, and olfactory).
Travel to egress points unassisted, and under their own power.
Ascend and descend three flights of stairs.

9:30 AM → 10:00 AM SURF Overview

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM Safety Training and Waivers (Passports as required)

10:45 AM → 11:15 AM SURF Underground Tour Lunch

11:15 AM → 12:00 PM SURF Underground Tour PPE, Shuttle to Ross

12:00 PM → 3:30 PM SURF Underground Tour (Noon cage down, 3:30pm cage up)

3:30 PM → 4:00 PM Travel back to SURF E&O Bldg (Return PPE)

4:00 PM → 4:30 PM Travel to Hampton Inn Hotel (via SURF shuttle)

Wednesday, June 18

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch provided at Middle School.

1:00 PM → 2:00 PM Science Walk and Discussion

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Thursday, June 19

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

Lunch provided at Middle School.

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

8:00 PM → 10:00 PM Pub Talk + Trivia (prizes awarded)

CETUP* participant talk and physics trivia related to Dark Matter (prizes awarded)

Friday, June 20

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Student Day: Introductions

9:30 AM → 10:30 AM Career Panel

10:30 AM → 10:45 AM BREAK

10:45 AM → 12:00 PM Scientist Mentor/Student Speed Match Up and Shadow

12:00 PM → 1:30 PM Lunch with Students

Lunch provided at Middle School.

1:30 PM → 2:15 PM TALK TBD

2:15 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration - Students Shadow

Saturday, June 21

9:00 AM → 1:00 PM Crazy Horse Memorial and Indian University of North America Visit and Meet Students

DATE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

More information to follow (Limited availability)

Monday, June 23

8:00 AM → 5:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Tuesday, June 24

8:00 AM → 5:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Wednesday, June 25

8:00 AM → 5:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Thursday, June 26

8:00 AM → 5:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Friday, June 27

8:00 AM → 5:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Saturday, June 28

8:00 AM → 12:00 PM Particle Physics and Cosmology Conference (separate registration)

Monday, June 30

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Workshop Welcome, Important Updates, Helpful Resources, and Group Photo

Speaker: Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

9:30 AM → 9:45 AM SURF and The Institute for Underground Science Overview and Update

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM Break

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaborations, and Lunch

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Tuesday, July 1

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 4:30 PM Discussion and Collaboration

5:00 PM → 7:00 PM CETUP* BBQ Dinner - workshop participants, families and staff invited!

Wednesday, July 2

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

1:00 PM → 2:30 PM Communicating with Media/General Public

Guest Science Journalist and SURF Communications Team: Ann Metli and Mike Ray

(plus 3 minute challenge)

2:30 PM → 3:15 PM TALK: TBD

3:15 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Thursday, July 3

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

1:00 PM → 2:00 PM Science Walk and Discussion

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

8:00 PM → 10:00 PM Pub Talk + Trivia (prizes awarded)

CETUP Participant Talk and Physics Trivia (Related to Neutrinos)

Friday, July 4

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

2:00 PM → 5:00 PM Enjoy Holiday Festivities! U.S. Independence Day!

Saturday, July 5

9:00 AM → 1:00 PM Crazy Horse Memorial and Indian University of North America Visit and Meet Students

Monday, July 7

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Workshop Welcome, Important Updates, Helpful Resources, and Group Photo

Speaker: Stacie Granum (SDSTA/The Institute)

9:30 AM → 9:45 AM The Institute for Underground Science at SURF Update and Overview

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM Break

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 2:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Tuesday, July 8

9:00 AM → 9:45 AM TALK: TBD

9:45 AM → 10:00 AM BREAK

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM TALK: TBD

10:45 AM → 1:00 PM Discussion, Collaboration, and Lunch

1:00 PM → 2:00 PM Science Walk and Discussion

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Wednesday, July 9

8:30 AM → 9:00 AM Travel to Sanford Lab Homestake Visitors Center

9:00 AM → 10:00 AM Deeper Talks: SURF Seminar Series (CETUP speaker)

10:00 AM → 10:30 AM Travel to Ethnobotanical Garden

10:30 AM → 11:30 AM Guest Speaker at Ethnobotanical Garden

11:30 AM → 12:00 PM Travel to Lead/Deadwood Middle School (via SURF Shuttle)

12:00 PM → 1:00 PM Lunch at Middle School

Lunch provided at Middle School.

1:00 PM → 1:45 PM TALK: TBD

1:45 PM → 2:00 PM Break

2:00 PM → 2:45 PM TALK: TBD

2:45 PM → 5:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration

Thursday, July 10

8:45 AM → 9:00 AM REMINDER: SURF UNDERGROUND TOUR DAY - pickup at 9:00AM (MST)

Participants going on the underground tour will follow this schedule. Participants not going on the tour will have other activities to participate in at the Middle School. More information will follow.

Those not going on the underground tour will have the option to attend a Hoist Room tour.

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Pickup at Hampton Inn and Travel to SURF for Underground Tour (via SURF shuttle)

Underground Tour participants (please read below)

If you are a foreign national, you will be required to show your passport before going underground and complete a SURF Access Request Form.

Anyone entering the underground must be 18 years or older, must complete safety training, and sign an Acknowledgement of Risk and Release, Agreement Not to Sue and Waiver.

Temperatures are in the low- to mid-70s on the 4,850-foot level.

SURF will provide personal protective equipment (coveralls, hardhats, cap lamps, safety glasses, etc.). For safety purposes, we require tour guests to wear clothing that is appropriate at a construction site: full-length pants or jeans, shirt with sleeves (at least ¼ length) and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and socks. Restrooms are available underground. Cameras are welcome.

Your underground visit may require walking up to one mile, sometimes over uneven ground. All those who are going underground must be able to perform the following activities:

Don and wear the required PPE.
Don and use a self-rescuer.
Walk in both warm/hot and humid conditions.
Walk across uneven or slippery surfaces for distances in excess of one mile.
Tolerate standing in very close proximity to others while riding in the personnel cage.
Tolerate changes in elevation.
Recognize and respond to emergency signals and signs (visual, auditory, and olfactory).
Travel to egress points unassisted, and under their own power.
Ascend and descend three flights of stairs.

9:30 AM → 10:00 AM SURF Overview

10:00 AM → 10:45 AM Safety Training and Waivers (Passports as required)

10:45 AM → 11:15 AM SURF Underground Tour Lunch

11:15 AM → 12:00 PM SURF Underground Tour PPE, Shuttle to Ross

12:00 PM → 3:30 PM SURF Underground Tour

3:30 PM → 4:00 PM Travel back to E&O Building (Return PPE)

4:00 PM → 4:30 PM Travel to Hampton Inn Hotel (via SURF Shuttle)

8:00 PM → 10:00 PM Pub Talk + Trivia (prizes awarded)

CETUP* participant talk and physics trivia related to Dark Matter (prizes awarded)

Friday, July 11

9:00 AM → 9:30 AM Student Day: Introductions

9:30 AM → 10:30 AM Career Panel

10:30 AM → 10:45 AM Break

10:45 AM → 12:00 PM Scientist Mentor/Student Speed Match Up and Show

12:00 PM → 1:30 PM Lunch with Students

1:30 PM → 2:15 PM TALK: TBD

2:15 PM → 4:00 PM Discussion and Collaboration - Students Shadow

4:00 PM → 4:30 PM Break (SURF Shuttle will pick up at Hotel for Kick-Off Reception)

4:30 PM → 5:00 PM Travel to Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center (via SURF Shuttle)

Pick up at Hampton Inn Hotel. Participants and accompanying family and friends welcome to take the SURF shuttle to the visitor center.

5:00 PM → 7:00 PM Neutrino Day Kick-Off Reception

private reception to kick-off the annual Neutrino Day Community-wide Science Festival (participants and accompanying family and friends are welcome)

Saturday, July 12

8:30 AM → 4:30 PM Neutrino Day (CETUP participants may volunteer for science panel and other activities!)