The Safronova Group
From quantum computing to dark matter searches
Research
Our group explores a wide range of research topics including applications of quantum technologies to search for physics beyond the standard model of elementary particles and fields, development of atomic and nuclear clocks and their applications, fundamental physics with quantum sensors in space, dark matter searches, ultra-cold atoms and quantum information, studies of fundamental symmetries, quantum many-body theory and development of high-precision relativistic atomic codes, development of the online atomic data portal, highly-charged ions, atomic anions, superheavy atoms, and other topics. Click here to learn more .
Research highlight
Direct detection of ultralight dark matter bound to the Sun with
space quantum sensors
The question of the dark matter distribution in the Solar system critically affects the reach of dark matter direct detection experiments. We show that space quantum sensors present new opportunities for ultralight dark matter searches, especially for dark matter states bound to the Sun. Exceptional enhancements of DM density that can be enabled by bound halos present an opportunity for direct DM detection with clocks.
We propose a clock-comparison satellite mission with two clocks onboard to the inner reaches of the solar system, to both search for a dark matter halo bound to the Sun, and look for the spatial variation of the fundamental constants associated with a change in the gravitation potential. We show that the projected sensitivity of space-based clocks for detection of Sun-bound dark matter halo exceeds the reach of Earth-based clocks by orders of magnitude.
Direct detection of ultralight dark matter bound to the Sun with space quantum sensors, Yu-Dai Tsai, Joshua Eby and Marianna S. Safronova, Nature Astronomy 7, 113 (2023).
Our work in the news:
Using clocks to detect ultralight dark matter
Researchers say space atomic clocks could help uncover the nature of dark matter
Unveiling the Universe: In 4 New Studies, NIST Explores Novel Ways to Hunt Dark Matter
Researchers propose sending atomic clocks to space to uncover the nature of dark matter
UCI physicist proposes new experiment to detect dark matter in our solar system
Sending atomic clocks close to the sun could unlock the secrets of dark matter
Joint projects
High-Precision Atomic Data Portal
We collaborate with Prof. Rudi Eigenmann' s team from ECE, University of Delaware to provide a wide range of atomic data via online portal.
Our team is a member of Q-SEnSE: Quantum Systems through Entangled Science and Engineering Institute
We focus of fundamental physics studies with quantum sensors.
Our team is a member of Thorium Nuclear Clock project funded by the ERC Synergy Grant.
The aim of this project is to construct a novel type of precision clock – a Thorium nuclear clock.
Positions available
Graduate Research Assistant position is available. Email Marianna Safronova at msafrono@udel.edu to apply.
GGI Lectures
GGI Lectures on the Theory of Fundamental Interactions 2023
Jan 09, 2023 – Jan 27, 2023
The lectures are primarily addressed to Ph.D. students in High Energy Particle and Astroparticle Physics. The aim of the school is to give a pedagogical introduction to the basic concepts and tools needed for research, covering the foundations of the subject at a deep and advanced level. The main topics include the Standard Model of Particle Physics and its extensions, Collider Physics, Quantum Field Theory and Cosmology.