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Particle Physics with the Belle II detector at the SuperKEKB electron-positron collider

Summary

This project provides the opportunity to join the global effort to search for physics beyond the Standard Model of Particle Physics using data from the Belle II Experiment at KEK’s SuperKEKB electron-positron collider.

Supervisor

Professor Kevin Varvell.

Research location

School of Physics

Program type

PHD

Synopsis

The Belle II experiment at the SuperKEKB electron-positron collider in Japan has commenced data-taking. It will primarily study rare decays of particles known as B mesons, in order to search for physics “beyond the Standard Model of Particle Physics” (BSM). It will also be able to search for new exotic states containing quarks and gluons. The University of Sydney is a member of the Belle II collaboration, and areas within which projects could be offered include: 

  • searches for purely leptonic decays of B mesons, such as a charged B meson decaying to an electron, muon or tau lepton and associated neutrino. The first two of these decays are extremely rare and have not been observed to date, and all three decays are particularly sensitive to BSM physics.  
  • studies of so-called semileptonic decays of B mesons, where in addition to an electron, muon or tau lepton and associated neutrino, a meson is also produced. Like purely leptonic decays, semileptonic decays are sensitive to BSM physics, and also allow for the determination of fundamental parameters of the Standard Model of Particle Physics (SM).
  • Studies of other rare processes using Belle II data. 

  • Specific projects could be tailored to suit the particular interests of students.

Additional information

Consider the following for example:

  • Potential research areas for PhDs topics 
  • Current PhD/Hons topics being undertaken at the location or with the supervisors 
  • Is the opportunity also available for Honours students? 
  • Techniques, methodologies, research approaches, technologies, etc., employed by the project - e.g., electron microscopy, textual analysis, etc.
  • Scholarships/funding available 
  • Eligibility criteria (e.g., Hons 1) or previous experience or skills required 
Some aspects of the above program can also be tailored towards shorter projects to be undertaken at Honours level.

HDR Inherent Requirements
In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

Want to find out more?

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2147

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