Beyond ΛCDM: Testing New Physics with the CMB and Large-Scale Structure

Precision measurements of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) from Planck have established ΛCDM as the standard cosmological model. However, significant tensions have emerged—most notably the Hubble constant discrepancy between early- and late-universe determinations, now exceeding 5σ. Recent results from DESI also suggest a preference for dynamical dark energy over a cosmological constant, further challenging the standard framework.

This project will investigate extensions to ΛCDM—such as evolving dark energy, modified gravity, interacting dark sectors, and neutrino physics—using a combination of CMB and large-scale structure data. The analysis will rely on modified Boltzmann codes (e.g. CAMB or CLASS) and Monte Carlo techniques for parameter inference. The student will also explore the constraining power of upcoming experiments like CMB-S4 and Euclid, with the aim of identifying signatures of new physics in current and future datasets.

A background in cosmology and some coding experience are recommended.