Dark matter (DM) is one of the greatest mysteries in science. From the particle physics perspective, a DM candidate has to be stable, electrically neutral and it should interact very weakly with the Standard Model (SM). To investigate the possible interactions and properties of dark matter, an effective field theory (EFT) approach can lead to important hints on how to extend the SM. EFTs have the advantage of being model-independent and still allow us to study the phenomenology of DM particles. They are justified when studying interactions at energies much lower than the energy scale of new physics.

In this project, the students will explore simple EFT operators describing the interaction between DM and SM particles. They will understand how to derive cross sections in an EFT framework and explore the parameter space using current experimental data.

By the end of the project, the students are expected to acquire a general overview of DM phenomenology within the EFT approach, understand the advantages and limitations of EFTs, and gain some first experience in analytical calculations and scientific programming applied to particle physics.