Particle Physics Research Centre Consolidated Grant Submission

Our mission is to study fundamental particle interactions with matter, and from that learn about the subatomic nature of matter, and the broader implications of that research. This is the study of "Radiation for Science and Society", driven by the most important fundamental challenges in modern physics today.

This grant proposal focuses on members of the Particle Physics Research Centre (PPRC) at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) exploring the fundamental nature of the Universe. This will be achieved through studies of the Higgs boson, neutrinos and precision measurements of Standard Model processes, as well as searches for manifestations of new physics, namely deviations from the Standard Model. These goals are aligned with the STFC strategic priorities and to achieve these goals we also work on instrument construction for the ATLAS Upgrade and the DUNE experiments, as well as performing research and development toward future colliders and generic technology development targeting future accelerator based experiments and future neutrino and dark matter experiments.

On ATLAS we will perform precision Higgs measurements, searches for rare Higgs boson processes that could elucidate our understanding of cosmological evolution of the Universe. We will search for new physics including Dark Matter via the Dark Machines collaboration and via rare decay searches, including di-Higgs production. We will study the Standard Model through a variety of high energy processes and through studies of rare B decays.

On the ATLAS upgrade we will work on the construction of the Inner Tracker Upgrade and the Level 1 Calorimeter trigger to ensure that UK MoU contributions are met and that the maximum physics yield is achievable from that project. Likewise on the DUNE experiment we will work toward the construction of the near detector to ensure that the UK MoU requirements are met and that the physics output from the UK investment is maximised.

Our contribution to the NOvA neutrino experiment focuses on the measurement of cross section data that are crucial to determination of oscillation parameters in the neutrino sector, and ultimately linked to the search for matter-antimatter asymmetries in neutrinos that could be the answer to why we live in a matter dominated Universe. This experimental activity will lead us naturally into exploitation of the DUNE experiment once construction of that is completed.

To enable maximum physics output from the STFC programme as a part of the global particle physics programme, the PPRC works on the development of underpinning detector technology for future experiments. Mature technologies are spun out into near term goals, such as ATLAS Upgrade and DUNE activities. For the longer term we identify barriers such as the need for low mass tracking systems, technology that can function in high fluence, ergo high radiation, environments, data acquisition for current and next generation experiments. We also focus on evaluating emerging and novel technology with the intent to overcome challenges or limitations of the existing technologies, looking beyond the current generation of instruments. For example ways to reduce neutron background in future dark-matter and neutrino experiments, and possible applications to other STFC experimental programmes.

We actively engage in impact through both societal and economic routes. QMUL was founded to facilitate education and opportunity for the local community. Today outreach and public engagement, particularly with the local community, remains strong. QMUL holds a gold watermark for public engagement. Outreach activities are embedded into the core ethos of our programme as a result of both our historic roots as an organisation, and the strategic vision shown by QMUL for public engagement. We also strive to work with the commercial sector and other stakeholders for economic benefit to the UK, and actively pursue technology innovation, IP generation