Modelling Neutrino Interactions for Next Generation Neutrino Experiments

About the Project

Neutrinos play a crucial role in our understanding of the universe. Their ability to oscillate between different flavours (electron, muon, and tau) provides a window into the fundamental properties of matter and the nature of the weak force. Future experiments like T2K and Hyper-K aim to precisely measure neutrino oscillations and search for new physics phenomena. However, accurate interpretation of these experiments hinges on a thorough understanding of neutrino interactions with matter. This particle physics project proposes to investigate and constrain neutrino interactions to support the goals of future oscillation experiments.

The research project will work at the intersection between particle physics and nuclear theory, involving the development and refinement of Monte Carlo simulation generators to accurately model neutrino interactions with various target materials. Detailed comparisons of these simulations to data from existing neutrino experiments (e.g., MINERvA, T2K) will be used to place precise constraints on specific interaction channels, such as charged-current quasielastic scattering, resonance production, and deep inelastic scattering, that are particularly relevant for oscillation experiments.

Candidates who are interested in multiple projects within our group need only register their interest once and will be considered for all projects in which they have an interest. You will need to put down a named supervisor, please use Kristin Lohwasser and Trevor Vickey as contact persons.

For further Information, please email k.lohwasser@sheffield.ac.uk and T.Vickey@sheffield.ac.uk or look at the University’s website: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd.

Further Information on the Particle Physics group in Sheffield and our projects can be found here: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/mps/research/physics/particle