Grant: Subatomic Physics Envelope - Project

The detector development effort for particle physics is being consolidated within R&D collaborations, called DRD in Europe and RDC in the USA. The purpose of these collaborations is to develop a detector solution portfolio that will enable the design and construction of future particle physics and astro-particle physics experiments, hence paving the way to future discoveries. The aim of this proposal is to enable the Canadians to play a leadership role in specific detection technologies by building upon synergies between several groups and leveraging earlier investments. To do so, we intend to establish a framework for collaborative work among Canadian researchers on the development of novel detector technologies. This proposal focuses on technologies that integrate sensing and readout capabilities within a single detector unit, for particle and single photon detection. The scope of detection solution encompasses gas detectors, single photon detectors, and charged particle detectors, able to cope with radiation damage which is a major challenge for applications at future colliders. The focus on detector-readout integrated technology will allow sharing of expertise and capabilities in the design, modeling, fabrication, characterization and integration of detector systems. It is a strategic direction for the Canadian group leveraging existing efforts: (1) the development of Depleted Monolithic Active Pixel Sensor by Carleton University within the CERN led RD50 collaboration and by the University of Manitoba in the context of the Electron Ion Collider, (2) the investigation of Gallium Nitride sensors built by the National Research Council in Ottawa as a solution with enhanced radiation hardness, (3) the pan-Canadian ATLAS Inner Tracker detector assembly, (4) the development of cryogenic Vacuum Ultraviolet sensitive single photon detectors in the context the nEXO (neutrinoless double beta decay search in liquid Xenon) and ARGO (dark matter search in liquid Argon) at TRIUMF, (5) the Photon to Digital Converter technology, designed primarily by U.Sherbrooke and built-in-Canada using Teledyne--DALSA's facility in Bromont (QC) and (6) gas detector with charged collection by silicon chips with major contributions at Carleton University and TRIUMF. This proposal is designed to break the barriers between subatomic physics projects in Canada by coalescing around the broad scope of a common technology and experimental capabilities to deliver world leading solutions. Successful funding of this proposal is expected to spearhead new research efforts within the Canadian subatomic physics community, enabling full participation in the DRD effort. The unique technologies that are expected to emerge from the proposed projects are poised to find applications in subatomic physics, provide training ground for the next generation of Highly Qualified Personnel in science and technology and foment collaborations with industry and the wider technology sector.