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
Chen X
(2010)
Folded resonant non-Gaussianity in general single field inflation
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2010)
Large non-Gaussianities with intermediate shapes from quasi-single-field inflation
in Physical Review D
Chen X
(2011)
Strongly coupled inflaton
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2010)
Quasi-single field inflation and non-Gaussianities
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2009)
Decaying hidden dark matter in warped compactification
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2008)
Fine-tuning in DBI inflationary mechanism
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2009)
Large primordial trispectra in general single field inflation
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chen X
(2012)
Primordial features as evidence for inflation
in Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics
Chirco G
(2010)
Gedanken experiments on nearly extremal black holes and the third law
in Physical Review D