Grant: Subatomic Physics Envelope - Individual

An outstanding problem of modern theoretical physics is the striking contrast between two frameworks we use to describe physics at vastly different length scales of our Universe. Quantum mechanics prescribes a statistical interpretation to the motion of subatomic particles at shortest distances. On the other hand, Einstein's theory of general relativity uses the notion of the spacetime geometry as a basic to the interpretation of current astrophysical measurements. Though both theories have sustained remarkable experimental tests in their corresponding realms of validity, their apparent dissimilarity calls for a more fundamental description: a single unifying framework valid from microscopic to astronomical distances. String theory at present is the only known theory with the promise of unifying the physics of subatomic particles and gravity. A characteristic feature of string theory is a description of its elementary constituents as being extended in one dimension, rather than being point-like. In recent years string theory witnessed tremendous progress which have led to new insights both for the theory of subatomic particles and for Einstein's theory of gravity. Nonetheless, a truly consistent description of Nature as a theory of strings, is still missing. My research efforts focus on understanding quantum properties of black holes and the origin of our Universe, as described by string theory. Additionally, I'm involved in developing analytical tools in string theory that could shed new light on the strong interactions of subatomic particles. Direct experimental probes in the subatomic physics of the quantum nature of gravity typically require access to energy scales well above the reach of modern particle accelerators. Thus, tests of any unifying theory at present are necessarily in the internal consistency of that theory's underlying theoretical framework. Recently, it was suggested that refined cosmological measurements of our Universe may serve as a magnifying glass into the stringy character of quantum gravity. Currently my research is continuing to develop these exciting ideas.