Objective
The Standard Model (SM) of Particle Physics predicts the free neutron lifetime, τn, as a function of only two input parameters with high precision. Recent theoretical progress now provides a SM description of neutron decay at the 10−4 level. My project, NuLife, will enable a future measurement of τn with 0.1 s accuracy to test these SM predictions at the same unprecedented level through the pioneering development of a novel, large-volume, and deep magnetic trap. Previous measurements with a material trap confirm that at least 200 times more ultracold neutrons (UCN) can be stored in such a deep magnetic trap, compared to our proof-of-principle setup τSPECT, when connected to the high-intensity UCN source of the Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland. My team and I will boost the statistical precision of the future experiment τSPECT2 by developing a novel phase-space matching beamline to maximize the transport of UCNs from the source to the trap. Complementary, we innovate large-scale hardware components required to fully exploit the superior control of systematic bias effects achievable in a fully magnetic trap and mandatory to determine τn with 0.1 s accuracy. My measurement will provide a high-precision test of the structure of the weak interaction which governs countless phenomena e.g. hydrogen fusion in stars and the radioactive decay of neutrons and nuclei. In theory, a much richer structure is allowed than yet experimentally observed: But nobody knows why Nature is as simple as it is! Tiny experimental departures from the SM prediction may hint at physics beyond the SM (BSM). Through its unprecedented accuracy on τn, my future experiment τSPECT2 will help to resolve experimental tensions in precision neutron decay observables and will enable high-sensitivity searches for new decay channels with the potential to either
set very stringent limits on BSM models, or to discover new feeble interactions, new particles, and new
structures of the weak interaction.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-COG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
55122 MAINZ
Germany
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.