Lancaster University plays key role in breakthrough understanding of new sub-atomic particle or force

Lancaster University plays key role in breakthrough understanding of new sub-atomic particle or force

Congratulations to scientists at Study Group's partner Lancaster University for its role in a major announcement of work identifying signs of a new fundamental force of nature.

The work was undertaken by an international team led by the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory and "provides strong evidence for the existence of an undiscovered sub-atomic particle or new force".

Scientists from the UK played a vital role in the experiment, an international collaboration between Fermilab and labs and universities in seven countries across the world.

Lancaster University physicists created novel computer simulations to investigate the motion of the muons.

Dr Ian Bailey, who led the Lancaster University contribution, said:

"Nothing is more exciting to a physicist than finding tensions between theoretical predictions and experimental measurements. The data collected continues to be analysed, and we are all excited to see what is revealed next."

According to the Chair of Study Group UK Sir Keith Burnett FRS, formerly the head of Mathematics and Physical Sciences at The University of Oxford - also part of this work:

“This announcement is a tribute to the work of scientists and technicians from across the world united in a common effort to better understand our universe. At a time when we face many complex challenges, the power of international cooperation between scientists on everything from COVID-19 vaccines and treatments to fundamental physics is truly inspiring.”