Prior to joining Exponent, Dr. Smith’s conducted research in experimental astrophysics focused on the development and application of radiation detector technology, including work in modeling and developing detector packages (using both solid state and scintillating crystal detectors), characterizing light detectors (photomultiplier tubes and avalanche photodiodes), and the commissioning of fast (nanosecond scale) signal processing and communication electronics. Additionally, through his participation in multiple astronomical facility construction projects, Dr. Smith has gained a background in the dynamics of large optical support structures and coating/degradation processes in mirror surfaces.

Prior to joining Exponent, Dr. Smith held research and teaching faculty appointment at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, the University of Maryland, Northwestern University, and the University of Utah. Dr. Smith has been invited to present lectures on a wide variety of topics in physics at conferences and workshops in the United States, Europe, and Asia. He has served as a grant proposal reviewer for both NASA and the National Science Foundation; as well as peer reviewer for the magazine Nature. He has served as both a primary and contributing author on over 50 peer reviewed articles in the physical sciences.