FYSJ5111 PH1: Exploring the Invisible Universe: Neutrinos, Dark Matter, and Cosmic Structure (JSS35) (1 cr)

Open the course unit brochure on Sisu

Study level:

Postgraduate studies

Grading scale:

Pass - fail

Language:

English

Responsible organisation:

Faculty of Mathematics and Science

Curriculum periods:

2026-2027

Description

Our Universe is shaped by particles we can barely detect and phenomena we still struggle to understand. This course introduces students to two of the most elusive components of the cosmos—neutrinos and dark matter—and explores their critical roles in cosmic evolution and structure formation. Over the course, we will discuss the fundamental physics of neutrinos and dark matter, the (astro)physical evidence for their existence, detection principles and the current experimental efforts to study them. The course is designed to give participants a broad, coherent picture of how these “invisible” particles can illuminate some of the biggest open questions in modern physics.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student will:

- understand the role of neutrinos and dark matter in the evolution and large-scale structure of the Universe;

- be able to explain the basic properties of neutrinos and dark matter candidates from both theoretical and experimental perspectives;

- become familiar with key detection techniques used in neutrino and dark matter experiments;

- be able to interpret simple observational or experimental signatures related to astroparticle physics;

- gain an overview of current challenges and open questions in neutrino (astro)physics and dark matter research.

Description of prerequisites

Familiarity with basic particle physics concepts and special relativity.

Completion methods

Method 1

Description:

Lectures; exercises

Evaluation criteria:

Pass/fail

Time of teaching:

Period 1

Select all marked parts

Parts of the completion methods

Participation in teaching (1 cr)

Type:

Participation in teaching