Measuring the shape of the electron with ultra-cold molecules

ongoing

One of the most puzzling observations in contemporary physics is the striking imbalance of matter over antimatter in our Universe. The Standard Model of Particle Physics predicts that nearly equal amounts of matter and antimatter should have been created, but all the antimatter seems to have disappeared. This discrepancy could be explained by a new particle or interaction that breaks the symmetry between matter and antimatter. Many different experiments are looking for signatures of this broken symmetry (CP violation) using a wide variety of particles, atoms and molecules. The CP-violating signature this project focuses on is an asymmetry in the shape of the electron, quantified by its electric dipole moment (EDM). The aim is to measure the EDM of the electron with tenfold better precision compared to the current state-of-the-art experiments. Such an unprecedented sensitivity can be achieved by using ultra-cold molecules instead of cold molecules, their slower speeds increasing the time spent in the sensitive region of experimental apparatus. However, the longer interrogation times bring new challenges regarding experimental stability and systematic effects. The objectives of this project are to use my expertise in magnetic field optimisation and high-precision experiments to tackle these challenges and to collect and carefully analyse the electron EDM data, testing predictions of new physics. This fellowship would give me the opportunity to learn how to create, control and detect ultra-cold molecules from the world-leading experts at Imperial College, and the curated training programme will allow me to grow into an independent researcher capable of leading my own research group. These skills are crucial in the next stage of my career as I want to continue with these tabletop experiments with molecules for fundamental physics, probing for new physics beyond the energy range accessible by the accelerator-based experiments such as at the LHC.