This research, to be undertaken at Fermilab, will study the photoproduction of high pt jets in the Wide Band photon beam, with photon energies up to 500 GeV. Quantum chromodynamics (QCD) predicts that high energy photons couple directly to the constituents of nucleons. However, this process has not yet been seen directly. Since there are only two underlying QCD subprocesses, theoretical predictions for jet photoproduction are well-understood. In addition, Dr. Corcoran will study the spin dependence of hadronic interactions in Fermilab's 200 Gev/c polarized proton beam. Despite theoretical predictions to the contrary, spin effects have persisted to high energies, and interesting results are expected in the first data from this unique beam line. Interactive activities include teaching an undergraduate physics course and conducting a high energy physics seminar series highlighting women physicists. This project furthers VPW program objectives which are (1) to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in engineering and in the disciplines of science supported by NSF and (2) to encourage women to pursue careers in science and engineering by providing greater visibility for women scientists and engineers employed in industry, government, and academic institutions. By encouraging the participation of women in science, it is a valuable investment in the Nation's future scientific vitality.
