We broadly investigate new models to explain the open questions of the standard model of particle physics, such as the origin of dark matter, the matter/anti-matter asymmetry, and the weak hierarchy problem, in the context of Beyond the Standard Model (BSM) physics. The investigations aim at identifying phenomenological signatures of these models to be discovered in current and future experiments, including colliders, dark matter experiments and in particular in gravitational wave experiments. Specifically, we explore the imprint of BSM models in the cosmological history of our Universe, focussing in particular on cosmological phase transitions and cosmic defects and the resulting gravitational wave signatures.
As part of the LIGO-Virgo-Kagra collaboration, we look for such signals in the data of the current gravitational wave interferometers. We also contribute to the data analysis methods necessary to disentangle the astrophysical from the cosmological background in current and future gravitational wave detectors. Our studies also provide physics cases as well as new data analysis methods for the third generation GW interferometers such as the Einstein Telescope.
