SURF invites the public to lab update at “Deep Talks: Moving science forward”

LEAD, SD— On Thursday, April 21, “Deep Talks: Moving science forward” will take audiences behind the scenes of the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) in Lead, South Dakota. From operating hoists and shafts to coordinating projects a mile underground to protecting our environment, the presentation will explore what it takes to make deep science happen each day.

SURF executive director Mike Headley will share an update on facility and experiment progress over the past year. Headley will be joined by SURF team members Wendy Straub, Jacob Davis and Ken Noren.

“We have so many talented staff who are doing amazing work at SURF each day,” Headley said. “We’re excited to share some of the behind the scenes work at SURF that’s advancing world-leading science.”

Straub, director of hoists and shafts, will talk about the recent Yates Shaft stabilization project and ongoing work in both shafts. Davis, deputy director of surface operations and utilities, will discuss what it takes to coordinate science and infrastructure work in the Davis Campus. And Noren, foreman of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, will discuss energy-saving upgrades to the plant and a milestone of nine billion gallons of water treated since 2008.

Deep Talks is held at the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center (Visitor Center), 160 W. Main Street, in Lead. The event begins at 5 p.m. MT with a social hour that includes free beer (must be 21 and older to drink) and light refreshments. The presentation will begin in the Visitor Center classroom at 6 p.m. MT.

This will be SURF’s first Deep Talks in the Visitor Center since early 2020, and the facility is excited to welcome audiences back to the home of Deep Talks. The event will also be available via live stream. Full event details are available on our website: https://www.sanfordlab.org/event/deep-talks-moving-science-forward

The Deep Talks lecture series is sponsored by Crow Peak Brewing Company, RCS Construction, Northern Hills Federal Credit Union and Chuck and Jolene Lichtenwalner. 

Sanford Underground Research Facility is operated by the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) with funding from the Department of Energy’s Office of Science. Our mission is to advance world class science and inspire learning across generations. Visit SURF at www.sanfordlab.org.