Description:

Nathan Sanford
Title: Importance Sampling for Errors in an Actively Mode-Locked Laser Model

Abstract: I consider a soliton-based, actively mode-locked laser model with a very low probability of pulses slipping relative to the mode-locking. I study the probability of these error modes occurring using dynamic importance sampling. For this problem deviations between an initially determined optimal path and an actual trajectory can become large due to the dynamics of the model, which makes the resolution of error probabilities difficult. Dynamic importance sampling helps correct for this.

Kevin Kelly
Title: Non-standard Neutrino Interactions

Abstract: Particle physicists use the Standard Model to describe the behavior of elementary particles and forces. The standard model predicts mixing between particles that transform the same under the group of the standard model, SU(3)xSU(2)xU(1). This leads to new phenomena such as exotic meson decays and neutrino oscillations. In this talk, I will describe the theory behind neutrino oscillations and the upcoming Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE). The DUNE collaboration plans on measuring aspects of neutrino oscillations far better than any previous experiment, and could be sensitive to new, beyond the Standard Model interactions. I will discuss the ability of DUNE to constrain said "non-standard" interactions and the Markov Chain Monte Carlo techniques used to do so.

Pizza will be available.