2026 Workshop

This five-day, hands-on course is designed for students and early-career researchers interested in learning how radiation exposure dating techniques—such as optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) and electron spin resonance (ESR)—are used to determine when sediments and materials were last exposed to sunlight or heat. Led by the Director of the DRI Luminescence Research Laboratory, the workshop introduces key scientific principles, field sampling strategies, laboratory procedures, instrument operation, and data analysis, all in a supportive, research-focused environment. Participants will tour DRI’s state-of-the-art facilities, engage in practical demonstrations, and gain experience interpreting age data from real-world case studies in geomorphology, archaeology, and environmental science. No prior experience is required—just curiosity and a background in the natural sciences. Whether you’re planning your first dating project or want to strengthen your understanding of these geochronological tools, this workshop offers an accessible and immersive introduction to radiation exposure dating methods.

We invite students, postdocs, and early-career scientists from diverse disciplines to join us for this unique learning experience.

For more information, please contact us at drill@www-dev.dri.edu.

LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Stout Conference Room & DRILL Lab

PRICING & FEES

Pricing and Registration is TBD

TRAVEL AND ACCOMODATIONS

Airport

Reno-Tahoe International Airport
12 Minutes from DRI

Reno Accommodations

Hotels (Gaming and Non-Gaming)

Reno Entertainment

Visit Midtown for food and gaming
13 Minutes from DRI

Field Trip Accommodations

Granlibakken (Recommended)
All Hotels (Lake Tahoe area)

SCHEDULE

Summer 2026 — exact dates to be announced soon.

FACTS ABOUT RENO

Tallest Climbing Wall in the World

BaseCamp, in downtown Reno, is home to the tallest rock climbing wall on the planet (coming in at 164 feet). This amazing rock climbing wall allows visitors to scale the side of Whitney Peak Hotel for unparalleled views of the downtown area, including the iconic Reno Arch.

National Bowling Stadium

Fans of “Kingpin” will recognize this massive Reno landmark. The nearly 400,000-square-foot bowling center was the backdrop for some of the movie’s iconic scenes. The five-story structure has almost 80 gorgeous lanes for you to play.

Birthplace of Blue Jeans

In late December 1870, the wife of a laborer asked Davis to make a sturdy pair of pants for her husband. Using the duck cloth, Davis added copper rivets to the seams for added strength. As word of the new creation spread, Davis was overwhelmed with orders for his sturdy pants. Realizing that he needed a business partner, he approached his supplier, Levi Strauss. – RenoHistorical.org

Seismic Activity

There are thousands of earthquakes annually, although only a couple hundred of these small earthquakes can be felt if you’re paying close attention. It remains unclear if these small tremors are ever responsible for shifting anyone’s luck in the casinos.

Casino Party

Reno has over 20 casinos within the metro area. Discover what Reno has to offer!