Activities in IceCube

Our research group's research regarding IceCube and its extensions can be divided into three categories, namely hardware, simulation, and analysis.

Hardware:

In our state-of-the-art laboratories, we perform detailed studies of, among other things, photomultipliers (PMTs) of the various optical modules as well as the optical modules themselves. For the PMTs, for example, we measure their characteristic properties and analyze individual components such as the photocathode.

We also test the optical modules for their properties, which include the optical background created by radioactive decays in the glass of the pressure vessel. For these investigations, a 10 m3 water tank with a positioning system has recently been made available, in which the optical environment in the ice can be realistically simulated.

Bachelor and Master theses are possible in the above mentioned areas.

Simulation:

Simulations are an important tool in physics to determine in advance the performance of experiments and to analyze their data. In the working group two simulation programs are primarily used: Geant4 and COMSOL Multiphysics. These are used, for example, to investigate the properties of photomultipliers used in the IceCube experiment. In addition, simulations are used to determine, for example, the influence of the shape and arrangement of the gel pads in the upcoming LOM. This can then be used to optimize the geometries. Furthermore, simulations will be used to determine the properties of the various optical modules in IceCube and the upcoming extensions.

Bachelor and master theses are possible in the above mentioned areas.

Activities for the Einstein Telescope

Machine Learning: 

Our group is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge deep learning algorithms for seismic activity analysis, crucial for the Einstein Telescope's operation. We specialize in predicting earthquake arrival times and modeling 3D seismic activity at the telescope's mirror location. This advanced approach is pivotal in minimizing seismic disturbances, ensuring the stability and accuracy of gravitational wave detection.
Gravitational waves provide insights into cataclysmic events like black hole mergers, while high-energy neutrinos offer clues about high-energy cosmic processes. Combining observations from these two fields can enhance our understanding of extreme astrophysical events, possibly unveiling new physics.

Bachelor and master theses are possible in the above mentioned areas.