A Synthesis of Two Approaches to String Phenomenology

String theory is the leading candidate for a unified description of nature incorporating both quantum mechanics and gravity. The theory is promising in that it displays an astonishing degree of mathematical internal consistency. However, it is not yet known if the theory is compatible the details of the Standard Model of particle physics (describing the fundamental particles -- quarks and leptons -- observed in nature), whose structure has been verified experimentally at experiments such as the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. This 4-VA funded Working Group is making specific steps forward in deciding whether string theory is compatible with our current experimental understanding of nature.

The 4-VA working group "A Synthesis Of Two Approaches To Superstring Phenomenology" was formed by two different groups of Virginian researchers who specialize in studying the link between string theory and particle physics. Anderson and Gray, who are Assistant Professors in the Department of Physics at Virginia Tech, specialize in space-time and geometric approaches to such "string phenomenology" questions. Melnikov, an Assistant Professor at James Madison University, is an expert on approaches to such questions based around the concept of Gauge Linear Sigma Models (GLSMs). This cross-institution working group involves faculty, postdoctoral researchers and graduate and undergraduate students, and is focused on combining these complementary skillsets in order to attack cutting edge challenges in string phenomenology. Our efforts involve a program of visiting researchers, cross-institution meetings and the mentoring of students and junior researchers.

Recent Publications

  1. F-theory on Quotient Threefolds with (2,0) Discrete Superconformal Matter; arXiv:1801.08658
  2. Dynamics on asymptotically conical geometries; arXiv:1710.00404
  3. Singular geometry and Higgs bundles in string theory; arXiv:1710.08453
  4. Spacetime supersymmetry in low-dimensional perturbative heterotic compactifications; arXiv:1707.04613
  5. Non-duality in three dimensions; arXiv:1702.08537
  6. T-Branes at the Limits of Geometry; arXiv:1702.06137
  7. From 6D SCFTs to Dynamic GLSMs; arXiv:1610.00718
  8. Multiple Fibrations in Calabi-Yau Geometry and String Dualities; arXiv:1608.07555