Dense matter in the QCD phase diagram and in compact stars

This project combines fundamental questions in nuclear and particle physics with astrophysical applications. Much of the phase diagram of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) at nonzero baryon density is unknown. Current research addresses for example questions about superfluidity and superconductivity of dense nuclear and quark matter. Depending on the specific project and the education of the student, methods from quantum field theory, hydrodynamics or the gauge/gravity duality can be employed. The project will make close connections to the physics of neutron stars, for instance by comparing the theoretical results to observational data such as mass, radius, temperature, or gravitational wave emission of neutron stars or neutron star binaries. The specific project may either be centered around the theoretical aspects or around the more phenomenological questions.