PhD in Experimental Particle Physics: Beauty and Charm Quark Studies at LHCb Monash University in Australia

This PhD opportunity at Monash University focuses on experimental particle physics, specifically the study of particles containing beauty and charm quarks. The research aims to deepen our understanding of the universe by comparing experimental results with predictions from the Standard Model of Particle Physics. The successful candidate will join the LHCb collaboration, one of the four major experiments at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN in Geneva.

Recent years have seen the collection of vast datasets, enabling researchers to probe the Standard Model with unprecedented sensitivity. Projects typically involve the analysis of large datasets and the development of experimental techniques, including the application of artificial intelligence. There are also opportunities to participate in the development and testing of new hardware for the next generation of particle detectors.

Potential research topics include:

• Measuring the production of particles containing two heavy quarks to test our understanding of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD)
• Developing new particle identification detectors for future upgrades of the LHCb experiment
• Searching for matter-antimatter differences in charm hadron decays
• Developing new probes to characterise proton-proton collisions

The position is supervised by Dr Tom Hadavizadeh, an experimental particle physicist with expertise in beauty and charm quark studies. The research group is part of a vibrant international collaboration, offering opportunities for networking and skill development in both experimental and computational physics.

Applicants should have a strong background in physics, with experience in data analysis, experimental techniques, or artificial intelligence considered advantageous. For further details or to discuss alternative project arrangements, prospective students are encouraged to contact Dr Tom Hadavizadeh at [email protected].

To apply, visit the Monash University Physics postgraduate project portal and prepare your academic transcripts and a statement of research interests.