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
Anderson E
(2010)
Quantum cosmological metroland model
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Rinne O
(2008)
Constrained evolution in axisymmetry and the gravitational collapse of prolate Brill waves
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Holzegel Gustav
(2007)
Ricci flows connecting Taub-Bolt and Taub-NUT metrics
in CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM GRAVITY
Durkee M
(2011)
Perturbations of higher-dimensional spacetimes
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Anderson E
(2009)
Triangleland: II. Quantum mechanics of pure shape
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Rinne O
(2009)
Explicit solution of the linearized Einstein equations in the transverse-traceless gauge for all multipoles
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Moncrief V
(2009)
Regularity of the Einstein equations at future null infinity
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Li B
(2009)
Indistinguishable macroscopic behaviour of Palatini gravities and general relativity
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Renaux-Petel S
(2011)
Orthogonal non-Gaussianities from Dirac-Born-Infeld Galileon inflation
in Classical and Quantum Gravity
Pontzen A
(2011)
Linearization of homogeneous, nearly-isotropic cosmological models
in Classical and Quantum Gravity