U.S.-UK Cooperative Research: Topological Defects in Particle Physics and Cosmology

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This award will support collaborative research in physics between Dr. Robert Brandenberger, Brown University and Dr. Anne Christine Davis, University of Cambridge, England. The proposed research deals with the role which topological defects that arise in many particle physics models play in cosmology, and conversely, with the constraints that can be put on particle physics models by investigating their cosmological consequences. Topological defects are playing an increasing role in cosmology. They are invoked in many theories to explain the origin of galaxies, clusters and the large-scale structure of the universe. Specifically, it is proposed to study the microphysics of topological defects. Cosmological consequences of some non-standard particle physics models will also be explored. These studies may provide new information about the state of matter at energies which will never be accessible in accelerators. This project will benefit from the complementary expertise of the US investigator in cosmological applications and the experience in field theory of the British collaborator.