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Academic Training Programme - Topics for 2001
Copyright © 2001 CERN -- Education Services and IT User Support
T0 Theory and general subjects
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T1 Cosmology and the origin of structure
A review of cosmology with special emphasis on the theory of structure formation. It will be explained how, from basic physical principles and few cosmological parameters, one can obtain simulations of the luminous matter distribution in the Universe, which are then confronted with observations. |
T2 Introduction to Strings and Branes
A simple introduction to the fundamental concepts of string theory aimed at non-specialists, especially experimentalists. The lectures will also include recent developments in brane theory, explaining the connection with theories with large extra dimensions. |
T3 Lattice theory and applications
We propose a review of the recent progress in lattice gauge theory simulations, including applications to the areas of meson/glueball spectroscopy, study of phase transitions (QCD and EWK transitions at high temperature and in the early universe), etc. |
T4 Symmetry breaking mechanisms in physics
Symmetries and symmetry breaking, in particular spontaneously, are of fundamental importance, not only for high energy physics but in many other fields of physics. It occurs e.g. in ferromagnetism BCS superconductors, superfluid Helium-4, anisotropic superfluid Helium-3 and possibly other states of matter. A simple introduction to the basic concepts, emphasizing simularities and differences will be presented. |
T5 The theory of heavy ion collisions
A review of the physics principles underlying heavy ion collisions, as well as of the theoretical tools available today to describe them, will be presented. The aims of the high-energy heavy ion programme at RHIC and LHC will be discussed and their impact on the understanding of the high-temperature and high-density states of matter will be illustrated. |
T6 Stellar and pre-Stellar evolution, and Extra-Solar planets
The last few decades have seen a rapid advance in our observations and understanding of stellar evolution and most recently in the pre-stellar phase. The recent observations of extra-solar planets also give new insight into the processes in stellar accretion. These recent advances will be discussed, along with the detectors that make them possible, and a survey of the prospects over the next few years will be given. |
T7 The status of Grand Unification
After a review of Grand Unified Theories, there will be a discussion of the present theoretical open problems and future experimental tests on some of the GUT predictions. Experimental consequences such as the proton stability will be discussed. |
T8 Telling the truth with statistics
Statistical analyses are part of every days life of a physicist confronted with data. These lectures will review the statistical methods and pitfalls, illustrated with practical examples. |
P0 Phenomenology and experiments
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P1 Escaping in Extra Dimensions
Recent progress in the formulation of fundamental theories for a Universe with more than 4 dimensions will be reviewed. Particular emphasis will be given to theories predicting the existence of extra dimensions at distance scales within the reach of current or forthcoming experiments. The phenomenological implications of these theories, ranging from detectable deviations from Newton's law at sub-millimeter scales, to phenomena of cosmological and astrophysical interest, as well as to high-energy laboratory experiments, will be discussed. |
P2 Neutrinos in Astrophysics, Cosmology, and Neutrino Factories and Superbeams
A review of the crucial role that neutrinos play in astrophysics and cosmology (stellar evolution, expansion of the Universe, nucleosynthesis). The information from the neutrinos in the sky is then compared with present and future terrestrial neutrino experiments. |
P3 Recent results on the Cosmic Microwave Background
COBE, BOOMERANG, MAXIMA are revolutionizing cosmology with precision measurements of the Cosmic Microwave Background. MAP and PLANCK will allow measurements of the fundamental cosmological parameters with unprecedented precision. What are we learning from these data? |
P4 Neutron Physics
These lectures will review the study of neutron physics and neutron induced reaction cross sections for Stellar Nucleosynthesis, Energy Technologies and Dosimetry. It includes a presentation of the CERN nTOF facility and its latest results. |
P5 Measurements of Fundamental Constants
Techniques for the accurate determination of the fundamental constants of nature (G(Newton), alpha(em), G(Fermi), alpha(s), muon and electron mass, etc), as well as of other derived quantities (e.g. muon g-2) will be discussed. Current status and strategies for improvements will be presented. |
P6 Anti-matter
Anti-matter physics is a key element of the present CERN program. The first results of the 3 experiments (ATHENA, ATRAP and ASACUSA) at the Antiproton Decelerator (AD) are becoming available and teach us in detail how anti-matter, such as anti-hydrogen, compares to every day matter. Latest results and challenges to create anti-matter atoms in a 'matter' world will be discussed. |
P7 Monte Carlo generators for the LHC
We propose a review of the rapidly evolving field of Monte Carlo event generators for high-energy hadronic collisions. A summary of the theoretical ingredients for such calculations, of the existing limitations and of the work taking place to improve these tools will be given. |
I0 Instrumentation
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I1 Detection of gravitational waves
New gravitational wave experiments (LIGO, VIRGO, LISA) are being planned and constructed, based on interferometry, both on earth and in space. Cryogenic resonant bar detectors, such as Nautilus and Explorer, have been taking data for some years. In these lectures a review of gravitational waves in theory, and gravitational wave experimentation in the past, present and future will be given. |
I2 Triggering at the LHC
The trigger challenge for the experiments at the LHC (ALICE, ATLAS, CMS and LHCB) is huge. The designs of the trigger in the experiments enter their decisive phase within the coming year. An introduction will be given on the challenges, followed by a discussion on the planned solutions. |
I3 Introduction to GEANT4
GEANT4 is conceived as a toolbox for detector simulation. Many HEP experiments are in the process of developing their simulation package based on GEANT4, but also outside HEP (astrophysics, biology) there are increasingly more applications based on GEANT4. A pedestrian introduction to the toolbox will be given on how to use it, illustrated with some recent practicle examples. |
I4 General Postion Systems
General position monitoring via satellites is becoming an increasingly important topic in science and every day life. Modern developments of GPS systems will be detailed and discussed. |
I5 Detection of cosmic rays
Cosmic rays are still enigmatic with several intriguing unanswered questions. These questions will be addressed with forthcoming new experiments, such as the Auger Project. An overview of the experimental techniques in present and future cosmic ray detection will be presented. |
I6 Machine/experiment interactions at the LHC
What will an experimentalists life look like at the LHC? In these lectures we discuss possible run scenarios at the LHC, background problems, effects of beam loss, and implications of the machine on small angle physics. Also Luminosity measurements and uncertainties will be discussed. |
A0 Accelerators
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A1 High Power RF Sources: Tubes are coming back
The new generation of microwave tubes for high power RF sources are continuing to make progress in their performance through R&D and the challenge of new applications. Future medical, industrial and telecommunication projects, as well as particle accelerators, lean heavily on increased output power and operating frequency capabilities together with high efficiency, a useful bandwidth, lower cost and high reliability, to be an economic success. |
A2 "Taming" High Power Beams
The next generation of accelerators will have to deal with (master) high power beams. Conceptual and engineering challenges of collimating systems, beam dumps, primary and conversion targets will be addressed. |
A3 Progress on e+/e- Linear Colliders
Electron-Positron Linear Colliders are natural successors to LEP at higher energies and offer a possible complement to the LHC. These future facilities are intended to reach centre of mass energies ranging from 200 GeV to 5 TeV and luminosities in the range of 1034 to 1035cm-2s-1, in order to address the burning questions in particle physics of mass, flavour and unification.
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A4 Magnetic field measurement techniques
Methods of magnetic measurements in beam guidance and in spectrometer magnets. Type and characteristics of devices and related mechanical and electronic equipment. Magnetic field positioning and alignment. |
A5 Ultra High Vacuum Technology for Accelerators
Present day colliders with long beam lifetime require extremely low pressures. Materials, methods and measurement of high vacuum. Pumping systems. Cold vacuum. Beam induced out-gassing |
A6 The LHC Injector Chain
Linac-Booster-PS-SPS will all be used for LHC injection. The lectures will review the features of these faithful machines and underline the modifications required for the LHC era. |
C0 Computing
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C1 Neural Systems, Genetic Algorithms
Genetic Algorithms (GA) are a method of "breeding" computer programs and solutions to optimization or search problems by means of simulated evolution. Processes loosely based on natural selection, crossover, and mutation are repeatedly applied to a population of binary strings which represent potential solutions. Over time, the number of
above average individuals increases, and better fit individuals are created, until a good solution to the problem at hand is found.
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C2 Databases for tomorrow
For many years the dominant database technology has been the relational model, as implemented in products such as Oracle (deployed at CERN for nearly 20 years), Microsoft Access and Open Source packages such as PostgreSQL and MySQL.
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C3 Internet Security Techniques
These series address the technical aspects of the
technology involved in Internet Security, and how the
different problems are solved. More specifically:
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C4 Net-based Information Dissemination
The web has changed our learning and work habits. Distance audiences participate in seminars and collaborations from their own countries. They communicate over the network using distribution techniques such as
multicast, interactive videoconferencing, webcast, video-on-demand, learning object databases, communities of experts and mailing lists.
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C5 Everything you always wanted to know about GRID and never dared to ask
Grid computing technologies enable controlled resource sharing in distributed communities and the co-ordinated use of those shared resources as community members tackle common goals. These technologies include new protocols, services, and APIs for secure resource access, resource management, fault detection, communication, and so forth, that in term enable new application concepts such as virtual data, smart instruments, collaborative design spaces, and metacomputations.
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C6 Data Challenges for the LHC era: data bandwidth and storage
The LHC detectors have an unprecedented precision and granularity. One physics event needs a few Megabytes of storage. Experiments expect to store 109 events per year and about half this amount for simulation
purposes.
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E0 Engineering
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E1 Modern Project Management Methods
To achieve its objectives efficiently, any scientific endeavour should be a mixture of both creativity and rigour. In particular, for experiments which become more and more complex, and which involve important collaborations, a minimum of quality assurance becomes a
prerequisite for the success of the project!
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E2 Fracture Mechanics and Risk Analysis
Precise computation of stresses by Finite Element Methods and the application of high strength structural alloys in modern structures resulted in weight saving and in reduction of safety factors. Fracture mechanics aims to limit operation stresses through design and to guarantee the expected service life of a structure containing flaws. |
E3 Surface Engineering and Surface Analysis
A review of surface engineering techniques (as treatments of the surface and near surface regions to perform functions that are distinct from the bulk material functions), coating techniques and thin films analysis and characterization, with focus on HEP applications |
E4 Real Time Process Control
The lectures will give an introduction to real-time computing. The main architectures and constraints of real-time computing environments are laid out. Fast pattern recognition, complex event storage preceded by extensive
simulation complement today's process control. Some comments on hybrid computing show the real-time processing power. Links with data bases, external networks and other non-real-time applications are covered.
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E5 Applications of Finite Elements Methods in High Energy Physics Equipment Design
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a computer based method for simulating or analysing the behaviour of engineering structures or components. By being able to predict the performance of a proposed design (mechanical, thermal, magnetic and electrical), FEA can assist in the development of research apparatus for high energy physics, providing engineering information for a more efficient and safer design, which cannot be obtained by traditional means. |
E6 Reliability issues at the LHC
The following items shall be addressed within this lecture series:
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R0 Other Topics in Applied Physics
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R1 Introduction to Circular Accelerators
A basic course in circular accelerators, introducing beam optics, longitudinal dynamics, resonances and instabilities. |
R2 Modern Geodesy: Alignement of Machine and Detector Elements
Modern survey techniques, principles and instrumentation. Reference targets for machine and detector elements. Tracking of Ground and support motion. The issue of very long neutrino beam lines |
R3 Free Electron Lasers (FEL): Theory and Applications
FEL offer a further increase in brilliance with the advantages of Synchrotron Radiation sources and the coherence of the emitted radiation. |
O0 Physics and Society
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O1 Physics Technologies in Medicine
Modern medicine is a large consumer of physics technologies. The series should address subjects like medical imaging by ultrasonic, hyperfine techniques, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and give as well a historic overview, a survey of recently introduced techniques like IMR, as techniques in the pipeline like pixel detectors. |
O2 Energy concepts for the 21st century (2)
The lecture series held in spring 2000 provided an
overview of the energy problem related to demography, risk
evaluation, waste and cost and discussed alternative energy
sources like the energy amplifier, americium and wind energy.
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O3 HAL: science fiction or reality ?
In 1968 Stanley Kubrick directed "2001: A Space Odyssey", a film about
space exploration, extra terrestrials and the evolution of intelligence.
It featured the robot HAL, who had near human capabilities.
Come 2001, it is thus interesting to reflect upon the fact
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O4 Decoding the Human Genome
Decoding the Human genome is a very up-to-date topic, raising several questions besides purely scientific, in view of the two competing teams (public and private), the ethics of using the results, and the fact that the project
went apparently faster and easier than expected. The lecture series will address the following chapters
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O5 Concepts for transport in the 21st century
Many voices have warned against the possible effects on the earth environment due to the combustion engines. Further, a heavy death toll is being paid every year due to transport accidents. Will roads continue to provide the main part of the transport needs?
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