Center for precision LHC studies

With the recent discovery of a Higgs-like particle, the main challenge for the particle physics community is to firmly establish the origin of mass of elementary particles and to demonstrate the possible existence of beyond the Standard Model Physics. Furthermore, we would like to discriminate between the many proposed models of new physics. It is commonly accepted that the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) will be able to provide us with the experimental input we need in order to answer these questions.

The experience from extensive searches for new physics at past and current particle colliders clearly demonstrates that possible new physics effects are likely to appear as small deviations from the predictions of the Standard Model. For this reason, having high quality data, alone, is not enough for improving our fundamental understanding of nature. What is also needed are theoretical predictions for key observables in the Standard Model with accuracy matching the experimental one. To be of real value, theoretical predictions need to offer reliable estimates of theoretical uncertainties. Unfortunately, high-precision calculations for hadron colliders are very rare, mostly due to their formidable complexity.

The subject of the present research proposal is:

* The development of a new generation of precision theoretical tools that match the precision requirements dictated by the LHC program,
* The application of these tools to high-value LHC processes involving top quarks, Higgs boson and jets.

Ultimately, the goal of the proposed research is to help place new, stronger limits on the existence of possible New Physics and significantly improve key measurements of benchmark Standard Model processes and fundamental physical parameters.