CAREER: Confronting Fundamental Theories with Observations in Cosmology

Dartmouth College, Hanover NH

Investigators

Abstract

This award represents the transfer of CAREER-grant funding for the research of Professor Stephon Alexander from Haverford University to Dartmouth College. The search for a quantum theory of gravity has seen progress with the advent of string theory and loop quantum gravity, but both lack direct contact with experiment. The PI proposes a five-year plan that can potentially resolve fundamental problems in cosmology and particle physics by developing new models that arise from theories beyond the standard model and quantum gravity. Additionally, he proposes new observational schemes to test these models. The PI's long-term research plans over the next five years focus on two themes. One is at the interface of particle physics and cosmology where he hopes to look at the consequences for LHC physics of his new model that unifies gravity with the electroweak force. He will also investigate the phenomenological consequences of a Supersymmetric extension of this model. The second area concerns the nature of the cosmological singularity. The PI has proposed several novel theories based on modifying gravity and will also consider the experimental consequences of these models. This project is also envisioned to have significant broader impacts. The outreach part of this CAREER project will consist of the PI giving a two-week course on Music and the Cosmos, which will be hands on presentation on the physics of sound and musical instruments. These lectures will be presented to urban high school students. The PI will also serve as both a research and long-term career mentor for two minority undergraduate students each year, by creating two summer research positions in his group through this award.