The Theoretical Particle Physics Group is the largest research group in the Physics Department and the third largest in the U.K. The group comprises 14 researchers who are investigating the fundamental laws of nature at the smallest scales and highest energies imaginable.
"The group is studying the interactions of fundamental particles such as quarks, gluons and the as yet undiscovered Higgs boson," said Professor Shore. "Particle physics at these energies is the key to understanding the physics of the Big Bang and the creation of the Universe."
"The group has very strong links with CERN, the European Centre for Nuclear Research in Switzerland, and we are closely involved in the so-called 'Big Bang' experiment that was the subject of international media attention a few weeks ago."
The Theoretical Particle Physics Group is also carrying out research in quantum gravity and superstring theory - a theory that could unify all the known forces in the Universe. The ultimate goal is to unite quantum mechanics with Einstein's general relativity, effectively the holy grail of theoretical physics research.
The full press release is available here.