The IFT is organizing a new edition of its annual series of lectures on Fundamental Physics, to be held on November 5, 6, 12, and 13 at the CSIC Student Residence in Madrid.
What do we really know about dark matter? What can neutrinos reveal to us about the universe? How should we understand black holes? These are some of the questions that will take center stage in “The Crossroads of Fundamental Physics”—a lecture series organized by the Institute for Theoretical Physics (IFT UAM-CSIC) and the Residencia de Estudiantes.
Through six accessible talks, researchers from various institutions will introduce the public to some of the major questions in contemporary physics, as well as the scientific breakthroughs that are opening new paths toward understanding the nature of the universe—from its most elementary components to its large-scale structure and evolution.
The series will be held in the auditorium of the Residencia de Estudiantes (Calle Pinar, 21, Madrid) and is aimed at the general public, high school students, and university students in their early years of study.
Conference program
November 5 | Dark matter and neutrinos
The first day will feature two lectures that will address two of the major challenges in astrophysics and particle physics.
- “Gamma rays to decipher the enigma of dark matter in the universe” presented by Miguel Ángel Sánchez-Conde (IFT UAM-CSIC). The talk will explore how observing the universe in gamma rays can help unveil the nature of dark matter—one of the greatest mysteries in contemporary science.
- “Understanding the Universe with Neutrinos” presented by Inés Gil Botella (CIEMAT), which will introduce the audience to the role these elementary particles play in our understanding of the cosmos.
November 6 | Black holes
- “Black holes: cosmic monsters or gateways to the unknown?”, by María J. Rodríguez (IFT UAM-CSIC). An opportunity to delve into one of the most fascinating objects in the universe and explore what black holes teach us about gravity, space-time, and the limits of our knowledge.
November 12 | Fundamental components and quantum simulation
The second week of the series will continue with two complementary perspectives on fundamental physics:
- “The Building Blocks of the Universe” presented by Clara Murgui, which will explore fundamental questions regarding the most basic components of nature and the laws that govern their interactions.
- “The Universe in a Quantum Simulator,” presented by Daniel González-Cuadra, will explore the potential of quantum simulators as a tool for studying complex physical phenomena and gaining a better understanding of the universe
November 13 | The invisible universe
- “The Invisible Universe: Galaxies, Dark Matter, and Dark Energy” by Indira Ocampo (IFT and Bielefeld University). The lecture will provide an overview of the invisible components of the cosmos and their role in the formation, structure, and evolution of the universe.
Science for exploring the big questions
With *The Crossroads of Fundamental Physics*, the IFT renews its commitment to scientific outreach and to bringing research in theoretical physics closer to society. The series explores some of the most compelling and unresolved questions in contemporary science, demonstrating how fundamental research seeks answers to issues that continue to challenge our understanding of nature.
Admission is free, subject to capacity. Further information and details regarding each lecture can be found on the Residencia de Estudiantes website.
