Precision flavour physics measurements with the ATLAS detector

Precision measurements in known sectors of the Standard Model can pinpoint discrepancies with respect to its predictions, therefore producing indications of new physics phenomena. The Flavour sector is one of the richest well-modelled precision domains where these discrepancies are still to be fully explored. Thanks to the high luminosity provided by the LHC, the ATLAS experiment can achieve unprecedented precision in some of these measurements, which range from precision determinations of particle properties (product ion mechanisms, lifetimes etc.) to the search and identification of properties of new particles: the ATLAS heavy flavour group is in fact the one responsible for the very first new particle discovered at the LHC. The Sussex ATLAS group is currently involved in the search for the very rare disintegration of B mesons into two muons, as well as the measurement of the lifetime of Bs CP eigenstates. The student will take a leading role in one of the Sussex ATLAS group analysis activities, building on the experience of the existing analyses in the flavour sector and additional indirect searches for new physics. The student will also participate to hardware and software based projects related to ATLAS event selection system (Trigger) operation, development as well as R&D activities for the ATLAS upgrade. Due to the centrality of CERN-based activities in this project, frequent and possibly also extended trips to CERN and collaborating institutes are envisaged.