Introductory description

The Standard Model of Particle Physics (SM) describes well the nature of, and interactions between, fundamental particles. In this module we will look at the challenges the SM still faces. These include the origin of the baryon asymmetry of the Universe (the observation that the universe is dominated by matter over antimatter), the nature of neutrino mass and possible new particles at high energy. We will look at the theoretical and experimental aspects of these questions, placing emphasis on the future research planned in the field.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

1. Introduction to the general research landscape of particle physics
2. The baryon asymmetry of the Universe and CP violation
3. Quark flavour mixing and CP violation in the quark sector
4. Lepton flavour mixing and CP violation in the lepton sector
5. The puzzle of neutrino mass
6. Investigating the high energy frontier of particle physics

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe the basic theoretical ideas, and experimental approaches to the solution of three of the puzzles challenging the Standard Model
• Discuss the plans and direction of research in particlephysics in the future

Indicative reading list

M. Thomson, Modern Particle Physics

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Knowledge of mathematics and physics. Skills in modelling, reasoning, thinking.

Transferable skills

Analytical, communication, problem-solving, self-study