Thomas Metcalf, a graduate student from the University of Edinburgh, is visiting our group from October to December 2013. Thomas is currently working with João Rosa in particle physics and cosmological models of warm inflation.
Abstract: We discuss the main features of a phase-space noncommutative model of quantum mechanics and its applications for quantum cosmology and black holes in the context of the Kantowski-Sachs minisuperspace geometry.
Abstract: A new generation of radio telescopes with unprecedented capabilities for astronomy and fundamental physics will be in operation over the next few years. I will address some of the possibilities for Cosmology offered by this new generation of telescopes, such as ASKAP, MeerKAT, LOFAR and the future SKA.
Abstract: In this talk we discuss the quantum theory of a scalar field on LQC Bianchi I geometry. By focusing on single modes of the scalar field, we show that, evolution of the quantum field on the background quantum space-time leads to a classical effective geometry emerging whose components depend on the quantum geometrical operators.
Abstract: The Eddington-inspired Born-Infeld (EiBI) theory of gravity has many attractive features. In particular, it may lead to a non- singular description of the Universe and it may accommodate compact stars made of pressureless dust.
Abstract: Warm inflation provides an attractive solution to the so-called eta-problem that generically plagues supergravity and string theory models, with additional dissipation damping the inflaton's motion and simultaneously producing radiation during inflation.
Abstract: n-DBI gravity is a gravitational theory introduced in arXiv:1109.1468[hep-th], motivated by Dirac-Born-Infeld type conformal scalar theory and designed to yield non-eternal inflation spontaneously. I explain that any solution of Einstein gravity with a particular curvature property is a solution of n-DBI gravity.
