Fundamental Physics and Observational Cosmology
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Cambridge
Department Name: Applied Maths and Theoretical Physics
Abstract
We aim to advance the confrontation between observational cosmology and fundamental physics by developing testable signatures of early universe theories which are of direct relevance to STFC-supported satellite and other experiments, such as Planck and Clover. This work entails making detailed quantitative observational predictions which can be used to distinguish between different inflation models, as well as those involving cosmic superstrings and textures. In particular, we wish to study cosmologies emerging from higher dimensional models in fundamental theory, and discover ways in which to differentiate these from conventional four-dimensional models. We will also use data from the late universe to develop probes of the cosmological constant, dark energy and the variation of the fundamental constants of nature. In addition, we will embark on a new project in gravitational physics, studying the existence, formation and consequences of black holes. We will consider the distinctive signatures of extra dimensions which the experimental study of black holes may be able to uncover.
Organisations
Publications
Fergusson J
(2014)
Efficient optimal non-Gaussian CMB estimators with polarization
in Physical Review D
Fergusson J
(2009)
Shape of primordial non-Gaussianity and the CMB bispectrum
in Physical Review D
Li B
(2011)
f ( T ) gravity and local Lorentz invariance
in Physical Review D
Davis A
(2011)
Chameleonic contribution to the Sunyaev-Zel'dovich radial profile of the Coma cluster
in Physical Review D
Avelino P
(2008)
Dynamics of domain wall networks with junctions
in Physical Review D
Li B
(2009)
Does bulk viscosity create a viable unified dark matter model?
in Physical Review D
Hanson D
(2011)
CMB temperature lensing power reconstruction
in Physical Review D
Durkee M
(2011)
Perturbations of near-horizon geometries and instabilities of Myers-Perry black holes
in Physical Review D
Gielen S
(2010)
C P violation makes left-right symmetric extensions with non-Hermitian mass matrices appear unnatural
in Physical Review D
Lehners J
(2009)
Multifield cosmological perturbations at third order and the ekpyrotic trispectrum
in Physical Review D