About Us

Michigan Target Research and Fabrication/About Us

Michigan Target Research and Fabrication (MiTRF), located at the University of Michigan, has the distinct capability of fabricating targets for a variety of high-energy-density (HED) physics experiments. We have been assembling targets for the Omega Laser Facility, the Jupiter Laser Facility, the Z machine, and several other facilities for over a decade. We have a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to the target fabrication process that serves the broader HED science community, including researchers from National Laboratories, Universities, and Private Industry. We provide comprehensive modeling support, fabrication, characterization and metrology of individual components and finished targets, hand delivery to the facility, as well as experimental support. MiTRF has recently become a LaserNetUS facility node to support LaserNetUS experiments. This allows us the opportunity to significantly contribute to the broader HED community by providing targets for many experimental configurations fielded at a variety of experimental facilities. We have developed a network within the target building community to provide high-quality targets that meet experimental specifications, relying on each entity’s specialties to maximize efficiency and target quality.

Faculty & Staff

Sallee R. Klein

Senior engineer, head of target fabrication at the University of Michigan

Klein’s nationally recognized expertise in fabricating targets for high-energy-density science sets her apart as one of the top specialists worldwide. With a deep commitment to education, Klein is at the heart of MiTRF’s engagement with the University of Michigan community and beyond. Never one to turn down an ornithology debate, Klein shares a playful interest in the Ann Arbor ecology with colleagues.

    Jill Schell

    Target Fabrication Engineer since 2023

    A University of Michigan alumna, Schell employs hands-on engineering to fabricate precision targets across diverse campaigns. Along with overseeing the undergraduate members of MiTRF, Schell is passionate about documenting and expanding understanding and access to the field.

      Carolyn Kuranz

      Professor

      Dr. Kuranz is the lead PI for MiTRF, and also the director of the Center for High Energy Density Astrophysics Research (CHEDAR), an NNSA Center of Excellence.

        Students

        We work with 5-10 University of Michigan undergraduate students at any given time. Our undergraduates learn hands-on engineering skills through laser-cutting, performing metrology, 3D printing, creating CAD models, and more.

        Current students:Major:
        Selma ZuhrićBiomedical Engineering
        Nora KreftNuclear Engineering
        James HackworthPhysics
        Prisca YimElectrical Engineering, Physics
        Saima SiddiquiAstrophysics, Interdisciplinary Physics, Art & Design
        Connor BallgaePhysics
        Oliver CarriganElectrical Engineering
        Jacob CooleyElectrical Engineering
        Katie ThieleNuclear Engineering
        Boyan ZhengNuclear Engineering

        In the news

        $27 million for laboratory astrophysics and nuclear fusion, led by U-M
        $1.2 million for laser target research laboratory

        A Brief History

        In 2001, NIF Early Light campaigns were beginning and Paul Drake was concerned that NIF would consume significant target fabrication resources and started funding target fabrication efforts at Michigan. While initially this effort only supported experiments led by Paul Drake or Carolyn Kuranz, in 2017 we began supporting external campaigns for national labs, academic institutions, private companies, and LaserNetUS.

        In 2023, we became a LaserNetUS node, allowing us to expand our support for the HED physics community to more users than ever.