The LBNL Physics Division hosted its twentieth “Physics in and Through Cosmology” workshop for QuarkNet Leadership teachers and high school students. This one-week, in person workshop held the week of June 22nd, 2026, at Berkeley Lab. Seven physics teachers and 43 students participated. The Standard Model of particle physics, neutrinos, quantum physics, dark matter, dark energy, CMB, quantum computing, and pixel detectors are some of the topics explored.

Workshop participants’ expressed how much they expanded their knowledge of the Universe in the following major take-aways. The enthusiasm of the diverse range of speakers, unique perspectives, and the in-depth nature of their presentations were highly appreciated. The insights into potential future paths in science as well as being exposed to the latest research in physics topics not usually covered in the classroom broadened their views. The ALS tour, lab visits, and activities like the cosmic particle detector offered real-world experiences and opportunities to look at research in action. Meeting, interviewing, and asking questions of researchers and physicists was insightful and inspiring. The opportunity to collaborate with diverse experts, colleagues, and students, and to learn about current research in cosmology and particle physics was fantastic.

Highlights of the program were a drop in visit by Nobel Prize winner, Saul Perlmutter, small group interviews of Scientists in their labs, and a round table panel discussion with the Scientists on the last day.

Workshop Coordinator Laurie Kerrigan, a retired high school physics teacher and one of this workshop’s original designers, has co-organized this workshop with Tony Spadafora since it was launched in 2006. Special thanks to Erica Hall for all of her administrative assistance and Ingrid Peterson for her oversight of the group activities.