High Energy Theory, Particle Astrophysics and Early Universe Cosmology

Cosmology in the Precision Era and Fundamental Physics

Cosmology has entered the precision era, and it has raised as many questions as it has answered. We are able to weigh the Universe and have learned that most of its mass is in exotic forms of energy that are not described by the Standard Model of Particle Physics, which governs the most fundamental interactions in nature. The creation of structures in the Universe, from galaxies to clusters of galaxies is governed by a new exotic particle (or particles), dark matter. While cosmology has taught us an immense amount about the Universe, to learn more about its fundamental nature, I utilize tools from particle physics.

My work centers on the boundary of particle theory with cosmology and particle astrophysics.  In recent years, it has focused on the nature of the dark matter. This work has many facets, from theories of dark matter and their astrophysical signatures, to new ideas and quantum materials for detecting it in the laboratory.  I also think about the quantum nature of gravity and ways we might search for it in the laboratory and in the sky. 

New Ideas in Dark Matter Detection

The search for new particle physics has been focused on accelerating particles to higher energies in search of new states.  However, dark matter may reside in a low energy hidden sector.  I propose new ideas to search for it utilizing collective excitations in quantum materials.  Read more>>

Probes of Dark Matter in Structure

While we carry out precision studies searching for new physics in terrestrial experiments, the cosmos provides a natural laboratory through stars and galaxies.  Read more>>

Gravity and Spacetime

We know that Einstein's General Relativity is incomplete, as gravity must somehow be quantum mechanical.  I study spacetime fluctuations due to the quantum nature of spacetime. Read more>>