The RNC is active in tracking detectors based on next generation Monolithic Active Pixel Sensors (MAPS), including a revolutionary mechanical support structure that was developed by RNC. The RNC made significant contributions to the upgrade of the Inner Tracking System (ITS2) utilizing the next-generation fast MAPS to the ALICE detector, which will enable the experiment to fully exploit the higher luminosities of the LHC in future runs. We also recently completed the construction and installation of the Micro-VerTeX detector (MVTX) using the same sensors for sPHENIX. Both are aimed for precision heavy flavor physics in QGP at RHIC and LHC, respectively

While much of the RNC instrumentation work is focused on MAPS detectors, we have constructed other critical detectors supporting the national heavy ion program.  For STAR, we constructed the STAR central detector (the Time Projection Chamber, or TPC). The RNC, together with collaborators at other US institutions, led the construction and commissioning of the ALICE EMCal, a large electromagnetic calorimeter that enables ALICE to carry out unique measurements of jets and other hard probes in nuclear collisions.

We also carry out R&D on novel instrumentation with a wide range of potential applications in nuclear physics and beyond. Collaborating with physics and engineering divisions, we develop novel sensors around tight integration of radiation conversion materials, CMOS pixel and data handling ASICs, and mechanical support based on precision carbon composite parts.  We aim to track particles with high spatial and timing resolution while minimizing the amount of material the particles interact with. Such detectors need to be able to survive high radiation as well as cryogenic environments.