PhysicsBS

The Society of Physics Students (SPS) is a student-run organization where members utilize their knowledge of physics to work together on various projects. The organization’s goal is to bring tools and concepts learned in the classroom into the real world and, when possible, share this passion for physics with the community. Activities range from purely social to group collaborations – constructing and demonstrating experiments, as well as engaging in community outreach through volunteering in local schools and forums. As an SPS member, you will be part of a community that has a deep love of science and experimentation and will be able to apply your knowledge of physics to create, amaze, and educate about the wonders of the laws of nature.

To become an official SPS member, apply on their website. Membership is $20 per year and includes a monthly “Physics Today” magazine subscription.

For more information about when SPS meets, please inquire at the Department of Physics office, EEP 227. 

More than 80% of graduating physics majors from Mines had summer research or internship experiences. Undergraduate opportunities are available both on and off campus.

The nearby Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) offers several internship opportunities, with Mines physics majors selected for about one per year. Entering South Dakota freshmen and rising sophomores are eligible for the Davis-Bahcall Scholar Programs; the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium also provides opportunities and financial assistance through its student stipend program.

Additionally, dozens of National Science Foundation-funded Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) sites in physics are operating nationwide, as are 17 sites under the Department of Energy's Science Undergraduate Laboratory Internships (SULI) program. Advice on applying is available here.