Theoretical subatomic physics

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The goal of this research is to precisely predict properties of subatomic systems that are also studied experimentally. Comparisons of theoretical and measured values test our understanding of fundamental interactions, accurately determine physical constants, and will ultimately lead to the discovery of new phenomena. In order to accomplish these goals, my group combines methods of theoretical physics with those of computing science and mathematics. We develop algorithms to enable computers to tackle large algebraic expressions, and use clusters of computers to solve huge systems of equations. We also use numerical methods to reveal the structure of simple atoms. At present we focus on the interplay of strong- and weak-interactions in the heavy quark production and decays, on the dynamics of one- and few-electron atoms, and on a variety of "new physics" probes involving muons and neutrons. Our projects have already improved the knowledge of fundamental parameters such as the electron mass, muon and electron magnetic moment, lifetimes of heavy quarks and elements of the matrix describing transitions among various types of quarks. The proposed research will increase the accuracy of the fine structure constant and deepen our understanding of the behavior of fundamental constituents of matter. This research provides an excellent opportunity to train students. They are exposed to a broad range of physical systems, from high-energy heavy quark processes to low-energy particles in traps, and learn to determine their relevant features such as characteristic energy scales. They learn sophisticated programming skills, useful also outside academia. Since most of our projects are completed in collaboration with international groups, students develop a global network of contacts and gain experience working with researchers from other regions, ranging from Japan and Vietnam to Western Europe and Russia.