SubsidieMeestersLight Dark Matter: New Directions for Theory and Detection
This project aims to explore theoretical frameworks and detection methods for light dark matter, laying the groundwork for future experimental discoveries in understanding its identity.
Projectdetails
Introduction
Dark matter is one of the biggest mysteries of the universe, yet its particle identity is unknown. This proposal focuses on light dark matter (LDM), with mass below a GeV.
Research Directions
In Light-Dark, I will pursue two intrinsically complementary directions:
- Theoretical Frameworks for LDM: I will explore novel theoretical frameworks for LDM.
- Direct Detection Concepts: I will develop new theoretical concepts to directly detect it in the laboratory.
This pioneering theory work will lay the foundation for future experimental realizations and is crucial in the quest to unearth the identity of dark matter. I will carry out a comprehensive research program designed to tackle these challenges, and I believe that I am uniquely positioned to do so.
Theoretical Frameworks for LDM
Regarding (I), the wealth of annihilation channels, scattering processes, self-interactions, decay modes, and mass splittings opens up a host of possible frameworks to set the LDM abundance, which I will explore.
I have already proposed a paradigm-shifting idea in the form of the Strongly Interacting Massive Particle (SIMP) mechanism, which, along with other new ideas for LDM, will be thoroughly studied.
Direct Detection Concepts
Regarding (II), the study of novel target materials for LDM, sensitive sensors, collective excitations, detection philosophies, and the interplay between them is crucially still in its infancy.
I will explore new theoretical concepts and synergies in these experimental aspects, including:
- Superconducting nanowires
- Microwave kinetic inductance devices
- 2D layered materials
- Ferroelectrics
- Directionality
These concepts have prospects to detect LDM orders of magnitude beyond current abilities, down to the meV scale.
Proof-of-Principle
Proof-of-principle has already been established for nanowires, where, using data from a tiny prototype device, I have already broken new ground in LDM parameter space.
Conclusion
The innovative theoretical approaches presented here open up an exciting and groundbreaking field of research. The proposed investigations are both timely and essential, paving the way towards a dark matter discovery.
Financiële details & Tijdlijn
Financiële details
| Subsidiebedrag | € 1.500.000 |
| Totale projectbegroting | € 1.500.000 |
Tijdlijn
| Startdatum | 1-5-2022 |
| Einddatum | 30-4-2027 |
| Subsidiejaar | 2022 |
Partners & Locaties
Projectpartners
- THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY OF JERUSALEMpenvoerder
Land(en)
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Probing the Finely-resolved 100 TeV Gamma-ray Sky for Ultra-heavy Dark MatterDark100 aims to explore dark matter particles between 100 TeV and several tens of PeV using advanced telescopes to enhance gamma-ray sensitivity and set constraints on dark matter models. | ERC COG | € 2.331.823 | 2024 | Details |
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This project aims to enhance dark matter detection and understanding by developing theoretical frameworks for photon and electron production in DM interactions, improving experimental verification and astrophysical implications.
Dark matter and neutrino experiment with monolithic arrays of cryogenic detectors
DANAE aims to enhance the detection of low energy neutrinos and Dark Matter by using advanced superconducting detectors to measure nuclear recoils, potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries.
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