At what stages of your studies are you?
I just finished my MPhys degree.
Tell us a little about your research project
My research, supervised by Monica D’Onofrio and Carl Gwilliam, looked at analysing the ability of a graph neural network (GNN) applied to simulated data to correctly classify signal and background processes from their experimental signature. The experimental signature researched was that of the selfcoupling of the Higgs boson. The cross-section of the self-coupling is so small it is yet to be measured using the 13.6TeV centre-of-mass energy produced by the LHC, however a proposed future circular collider (FCC) with a centre-of-mass
energy of 100TeV could be powerful enough to accomplish this feat. The data was simulated to mirror events produced at the FCC, which were then inputted to the GNN to be processed. I spent my project researching the parameters of the GNN that made this classification optimal.
Sam (Left) sharing his results on the roof of the Oliver Lodge Building.
What skills have you developed during your research project?
My computer programming skills have been developed by this project, especially my ability to understand and make effective changes to machine learning algorithms. On top of this, it has given me more of an experience of what experimental research is like and has improved my ability to work in a team in that sort of environment.
Any final thoughts on your placement?
I really enjoyed my placement and feel I have gained invaluable experience from it that I couldn’t have got anywhere else.
So, what’s next?
I’m hoping to do a PhD in particle physics in the future.
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