This thesis focuses on measuring the polarization of Lambda hyperons in exclusive deeply virtual meson production processes. The study is rooted in a surprising discovery from the 1970s: in proton-Beryllium collisions, ? hyperons exhibited transverse polarization, challenging the predictions of perturbative Quantum Chromodynamics. Similar polarizations have since been observed in various collision systems.
The proposed research topic leverages deeply virtual exclusive reactions in electron-proton scattering, providing precise control over final states and initial particle polarizations. Specifically, the reaction e+p->e+Lambda+K+ is explored to shed light on the Lambda hyperon's polarization. This process is also sensitive to the poorly known transversity Generalized Parton Distributions (GPDs) of the nucleon, offering valuable insights into nucleon properties.
The thesis aims to analyze data collected with the CLAS12 experiment at the Jefferson Laboratory (JLab) in US, with a focus on e-p collisions with a longitudinally polarized NH3 target. Machine learning algorithms and simulations will be employed to enhance data reconstruction and event candidate selection. The candidate will also contribute to simulation studies for future detectors and their reconstruction algorithms for the EIC.
The research will be conducted within the Laboratory of Nucleon Structure at CEA/Irfu. A background in particle physics, computer science (C++, Python), and knowledge of particle detectors is beneficial for active participation in data analysis.
The student will have the opportunity to collaborate with local and international researchers, to participate in the CLAS collaboration, to join the EIC user group with frequent trips to the USA for data collection and workshops, and present research findings at international conferences.