Probing the Physics of the Hierarchy Problem

University Of Notre Dame, Notre Dame IN

Investigators

Abstract

A two-pronged program in theoretical elementary particle physics and cosmology will study the source of mass for elementary particles and the source of energy which now dominates the universe. For the former, studies will be made to determine how data from high-energy collider facilities can be used to unravel the way in which the Higgs boson interacts with matter. From this we will learn whether there is more than one Higgs boson and how the Higgs boson(s) generate masses for other particles. On the latter front, there is mounting evidence that most of the energy in the universe has a unique and unknown form. Models will be built to explain this data and will be tested against the growing body of data. The twin questions of what gives particles their mass and what gives the universe its mass are fundmentally important and will be at the center of theoretical and experimental work for the coming decade.