Research team
Expertise
As experimental particle physicist I have 10 years of experience in data analysis on particle collisions recorded by the CMS experiment at the CERN LHC accelerator. My main objective was to understand the structure and dynamics of the proton in a precise way, by conducting novel measurements. In particular I performed research on Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) in the forward and small-x phase space. Currently my research is focused on gravitational wave instrumentation where I will contribute to the development of ETPathfinder, a prototype interferometer for the future Einstein Telescope observatory.
ET-TECH: Empowering Tomorrow's Technological Horizons for Einstein Telescope.
Abstract
In 2015, for the first time, the existence of gravitational waves was demonstrated using a telescope based on interferometry. The discovery added a new dimension to astronomical measurements. Despite improvements in subsequent years, this telescope is now reaching its limits. The Einstein Telescope is set to pioneer third-generation interferometry, enabling both the detection and measurement of a multitude of gravitational waves. The telescope will become a pioneer in an era of international collaboration among astronomical observatories, engaging in multi-messenger astronomy together with existing telescopes and observatories. A conceptual design study, financed by the EU [1], has identified the Euregio Meuse-Rhine (EMR) as a potential location for hosting the Einstein Telescope. With this proposal, we aspire to conduct groundbreaking research to maximize the potential of third-generation gravity detectors and share this knowledge with Flemish businesses and the public. Simultaneously, we aim to confirm the location and possible configuration of the Einstein Telescope in the EMR region, such that investing in the Einstein Telescope is justified. The emphasis is on leveraging existing expertise in Flanders to develop essential technologies for the Einstein Telescope. This expertise resides within knowledge institutions and industrial partnerships, as confirmed in the initial phase of this IRI by the international consortium developing a prototype of the Einstein Telescope. Expectations are that Flemish knowledge institutions will devise solutions for mirror polishing, explore new promising materials for mirror coatings, develop optical filters and amplifiers for new laser frequencies, create custom sensors for extremely precise measurements, and implement controls under ultra-high vacuum conditions. Additionally, Flemish knowledge institutions are involved in research on vacuum system construction, characterization and modelling of seismic noise, low-frequency seismic compensation, new generation powerful computer systems, and new algorithms to measure a multitude of gravitational waves in realtime with these new computer systems, etc. Finally, efforts are directed towards disseminating results and new knowledge to the broader public and businesses at an early stage. Early valorization allows us to extract the maximum value from this investment. Knowledge dissemination also aims to spark interest in science and STEAM in general.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Remortel Nick
- Co-promoter: Audenaert Amaryllis
- Co-promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Preparatory Phase for the Einstein Telescope Gravitational Wave Observatory (ET-PP).
Abstract
Einstein Telescope (ET) will be the European Third-Generation (3G) Gravitational Wave (GW) Observatory, designed to observe the Universe by covering the whole spectrum observable from Earth with interferometric GW detectors. ET will put Europe at the forefront of the GW research being the first and most advanced 3G GW observatory. Europe will take the lead in the newborn multi messenger astronomy by combining information delivered by ET with optical, IR, UV, gamma, cosmic ray and neutrino telescopes observations. ET will impact on our fundamental physics knowledge, and our understanding of the fundamental interactions governing the evolution of black-holes and neutron stars. The ET preparatory phase (ET-PP) will address a number of fundamental prerequisites for the approval, construction and operation of ET: the enlargement of the ET consortium, the legal framework, governance schemes, and financial regulations under which ET will be constructed and operated; the detailed technical design and costing of the ET observatory; the preparation of the ET site selection; detailing and cost-estimation of the required site infrastructure, and its socioeconomic and environmental impacts; the schemes for technology transfer, procurement and industry involvement in the technical design and construction of ET; the required linking with relevant science communities regarding the detailed definition of the science program, and the user services and data access model. For ET-PP, support is sought for work on the legal, governance and financial issues, for the installation of a project office coordinating and supporting management of ET-PP as well as the design of ET and the planning of the implementation, for site-related work, for studies regarding the optimization and production of ET components by industry, for linking with science communities and for increasing social awareness. Hence, ET-PP will deliver a detailed implementation plan for the ET infrastructure.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Remortel Nick
- Co-promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Essential Technologies for the Einstein Telescope.
Abstract
The first detections of gravitational waves since 2015 and the dawn of the multi-messenger astronomy era have demonstrated the enormous scientific potential of gravitational-wave observatories and provided a solid basis for the future of gravitational-wave (astro-)physics. The Einstein Telescope is envisioned as the pioneer of a new generation of gravitational wave detectors designed to realize this potential. An EU-funded Conceptual Design Study has identified the Belgian-Dutch-German border area as a promising location to site the Einstein Telescope. With this application we aim to conduct forefront research in gravitational-wave science and engineering in support of the realisation of the Einstein Telescope. The focus of this proposal is to leverage existing research strengths combined with industrial partnerships to develop a limited number of essential technologies for the Einstein Telescope, including new promising mirror coating materials, custom-made sensors for the low-temperature systems, the beampipe vacuum system, tracking and characterising systems for ground vibrations, and high-performance computing.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Remortel Nick
- Co-promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
- Co-promoter: Verbeeck Johan
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Research and development of novel position sensors & actuators for seismic attenuation systems of the ETpathfinder experiment.
Abstract
The ability to directly observe gravitational waves (GW) opens up a whole new window to study our universe and its fundamental laws of physics. Such GW are however extremely weak and to detect them we need very sensitive interferometers capable of measuring displacements 10000 times smaller than the size of a proton. With current generation detectors we can observe several GW per year, originating from the coalescence of compact binary star systems. But to fully exploit the potential of gravitational waves it is crucial to enhance the sensitivity of GW observatories with several orders of magnitude, especially at low frequencies. This requires the usage of new technologies such as different mirror materials, laser wavelengths, and cryogenic temperatures to minimise noise. These new concepts can be studied with ETpathfinder, a R&D infrastructure for testing and prototyping novel technologies for the Einstein Telescope: a future third generation ground based European GW observatory. The aim of this project is to contribute to the construction and development of ETpathfinder, which will be built in Maastricht. In particular, the focus will be on the development of detector control systems that are crucial to monitor and steer ETPathfinder operations with a minimal noise level. More precisely, we will construct and further develop linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) position sensors in combination with voice coil (VC) actuators. These are extremely accurate and crucial to construct seismic attenuation systems for GW detectors. The first objective is to contribute to the construction of LVDT/VC systems for ETpathfinder Phase 1 using state of the art designs. Afterwards we will focus on the development of novel LVDT/VC designs for future detector implementations. Finally we will participate in the commissioning and operation of ETpathfinder Phase 1, and contribute to first detector performance measurements. The research conducted in this project will lead to significant contributions to the ETpathfinder experiment, and will consolidate our knowledge in LVDT/VC systems. It can furthermore lead to improved LVDT/VC designs suitable for future GW observatories.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
- Fellow: Kukkadapu Kumar Akhil
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Construction and development of LVDT coils for the ETPathfinder project.
Abstract
We aim to kickstart new expertise in gravitational wave instrumentation at UAntwerpen by contributing to the construction and development of ETPathfinder, a prototype for the Einstein Telescope: a future third generation gravitational wave observatory. In particular, the focus will be on the development of detector control systems that are crucial to monitor and steer ETPathfinder operations with a minimal noise level. We will set up a test system to construct and further develop linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) position sensors. These are extremely accurate and necessary to construct seismic attenuation systems for gravitational wave detectors. The performed research and its output will enable us to play a key role in future gravitational wave instrumentation.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Unlocking the Dark Universe with Gravitational Wave Observations: from QuantumOptics to Quantum Gravity.
Abstract
The spectacular first direct detections of gravitational waves (GW) have opened up hitherto unexplored and extreme regions of the universe. To realize the rich discovery potential of GWs with laser interferometry will require new collaborations and initiatives at the interface of physics and engineering. With this Declaration of Intent our research groups join forces to put forward a coherent research program building on our strengths and centered around six challenges in GW science and engineering. Our objectives include novel precision testing of Einstein's theory of gravity near black holes and in the early universe, and key advancements on the extremely stringent requirements on the mirrors and their coatings in the interferometer cavities. This will forge a cohesive vibrant Flemish research community in this nascent field, firmly embedded in the global collaborations working towards future observatories, thereby fully integrating Flanders into this exhilarating adventure to unlock the dark side of our universe.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Remortel Nick
- Co-promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project website
Project type(s)
- Research Project
Color Entanglement in QCD and TeV Jets at Hadron Colliders.
Abstract
This research proposal focuses on the new kinematic region of highly energetic, nearly back-to-back jets which will be explored for the first time at the LHC Run II. Our approach is based on recognizing that in the back-to-back region theoretical predictions for jet distributions are sensitive, despite the large transverse momentum of each individual jet, to Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) colorcorrelation effects which go beyond the expectation of customary next-to-leading-order or next-tonext- to-leading-order calculations, and lead to novel "color entanglement" processes. We will employ advanced QCD factorization and resummation techniques to investigate these effects theoretically, to identify relevant jet observables, and to interpret the results of measurements of multi-TeV, nearly back-to-back jets which we will perform with the CMS detector at Run II. Phenomenological and experimental studies will focus on the jet transverse momentum imbalance, on the azimuthal distance between the jets, and on the azimuthal correlation between the leading jet transverse momentum and the transverse momentum imbalance. The outcome of the proposed studies will be a high-impact set of methods to deal with QCD color correlations in multi-jet final states, which could be used both for precision physics, possibly revealing new aspects of the Standard Model, and for searches for physics beyond the Standard Model in multi-jets channels, both at the LHC and future high-luminosity experiments.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Mechelen Pierre
- Co-promoter: Hautmann Francesco
- Co-promoter: Van Haevermaet Hans
- Co-promoter: Van Remortel Nick
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
A novel study of QCD with final state jet correlations at the LHC.
Abstract
The main objective of the project is to perform a thorough study of QCD by conducting precise and novel measurements with the CMS experiment at the LHC using the new RunII data with a centre- of-mass energy of vs = 13 TeV. We want to focus on the experimental measurements of processes that challenge the mainstream collinear factorisation approach that is complemented with phenomenological models. In particular the study of final state jet correlations yields an excellent sensitivity to the physics of interest. The outcome of these measurements is a direct input for the theory community and provides feedback to the phenomenological groups that develop Monte Carlo event generator models. The goal is to actively contribute to an innovation of the research field, by proposing and studying new observables or analysis techniques that can lead to reduced systematic uncertainties or sensitivity to new dynamical effects in QCD. In addition, conventional studies of QCD are performed with low luminosity data that will become less common at high luminosity hadron colliders like the LHC, the last part of the project therefore aims to investigate the feasibility of future QCD measurements in high pile-up conditions.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Mechelen Pierre
- Fellow: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project
The search for novel QCD dynamics at the LHC.
Abstract
The main objective of the project is to perform a thorough study of QCD by conducting precise and novel measurements with the CMS experiment at the LHC. With this project we want to focus on the experimental measurements of processes that challenge the mainstream collinear, single parton exchange approach. The outcome of these measurements is a direct input for the theory community and provides feedback to the phenomenological groups that develop various MC model implementations.Researcher(s)
- Promoter: Van Mechelen Pierre
- Fellow: Van Haevermaet Hans
Research team(s)
Project type(s)
- Research Project