Applications of string theory

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String theory is a proposed solution to the many conceptual conflicts existing currently between differentbranches of theoretical physics. The theory attempts to describe all natural phenomena around us in one unifiedframework. This framework should then describe the physics of elementary particles(currently described verysuccessfully by the standard model of particle physics), as well as gravitational physics (described by Einsteintheory of general relativity), in a manner consistent with the basic postulates of quantum mechanics.The last few years have seen a rapid development in our understanding of the logical structure of the theory.The research proposed is aimed at extending this knowledge and applying it to the study of a vast array ofphysical questions. Many such questions have plagued previous attempts to quantize gravity and to unify itwith the rest of fundamental physics. As such, these questions should serve as as yardstick for the success ofstring theory in its ambitious goals.Understanding the puzzles related to quantum gravity should be used to get a better grasp of the behavior ofgravity in unusual circumstances. One such arena is that of early universe cosmology, where applying stringtheory will hopefully result in a qualitatively new picture of the physics. This is also the context most hopeful for a true test of the theory, namely an experimental one. Cosmology has become a very precise experimental science, and imprints of string theory may be all around us, waiting for us to become smart enough to decipher them!