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Particle physics

A researcher dressed in blue scrubs and wearing a futuristic eye mask inspects a lab sample.

Leading scientific breakthroughs to uncover the deepest secrets of the universe.

At Liverpool our work in particle physics encompasses the whole research life cycle. We develop world-leading technologies for instrumentation and build precise detectors for major experiments. We then analyse the data from those experiments, making important discoveries about the smallest elements of the universe.

Leading the way

We play a major role in experiments across the world. Our broad programme, carried out in facilities like CERN and Fermilab, is enabled by our unique mixture of instrumentation and analysis expertise. It's a major reason why we attract leading researchers from around the globe.

Advancing scientific discovery

Our instrumentation - alongside our development of state-of-the-art technology that underpins it - influences the design of next generation experiments. Our insight shapes the future of the subject. We address the most fundamental questions in nature, searching for new particles, forces and phenomena, to advance the boundaries of knowledge.

2
Nobel Prize winners
99%
of our scientific publications are rated 3* (internationally excellent) or 4* (world-leading)
REF2021
£50.8m
research income raised

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Facilities and expertise

A researcher in blue scrubs and a face mask inspects a sample through a microscope.

Liverpool Semiconductor Detector Centre

A unique facility for performing major research and development into the next generation of particle detection systems.

A man in a white lab coat and glasses uses a large piece of equipment in a laboratory setting.

Physics department workshop

The workshop is equipped with state of the art machinery including wire-spark eroders, CNC milling, lathe machines and 3D printers.

HEP computing fig 1, the cluster room

Computing facilities

We have an excellent computing infrastructure in place to support our work in particle physics. Core research systems are housed in our newly refurbished data centre.

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Global discovery powerhouse

Our researchers lead in global collaborations, beam diagnostics, and detector technology.

They contribute significantly to international projects and advisory boards, advancing particle physics and shaping the European Strategy for Particle Physics.

Research activity

A photograph of a circular collider tunnel at CERN

Driving discovery at the world’s largest accelerator

CERN is home to some of the most advanced particle physics experiments, with researchers from Liverpool playing a leading role in three of its major projects.

A close-up photograph of a VELO detector

Liverpool Particle Physics Group

Find out more about the UK’s leading centre for particle physics research and their study of the fundamental properties of the universe.

A photograph of Dr Cristiano Sebastiani and Professor Monica D'onofrio at the ATLAS experiment at CERN

ATLAS experiment at CERN

Dr Cristiano Sebastiani is investigating fundamental questions about the nature of the universe through his work on the ATLAS experiment at CERN.

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