Margherita Putti

23 May 2024

Photo: Margherita Putti

Margherita Putti comes from Padova, Italy. She graduated from the University of Padua in 2022, where she wrote her Master’s thesis on cosmic microwave background (CMB) spectral distortions from the early universe. Currently, she works at the II. Institute for Theoretical Physics of Universität Hamburg and the DESY Theory group under the supervision of Géraldine Servant and Alexander Westphal on String Cosmology.

What is the topic of your research? 

I work alongside Jacob Leedom and my supervisor Alexander Westphal on topics of string theory axions. String theory is a fascinating theory of quantum gravity that was introduced to unite quantum field theory and gravity, the two main theories that make up our reality. In the last decades, however, after failing to observe supersymmetry at the LHC, string theory has developed a bad reputation among phenomenologists.  My research aims to bridge this gap between string theory and phenomenology by investigating the signals arising from potential string compactifications. In particular, my PhD project has been focused on investigating the possible signals left behind by string theory axions, pseudo-scalar fields that naturally emerge as we compactify extra dimensions to yield the familiar four spacetime dimensions we observe. 

What fascinates you about your research focus? 

Working at the intersection of string theory and cosmology gives me the opportunity to play and explore different tools, from the geometrical and mathematical ones essential for addressing string theory, to the more computational and physical ones needed to explain the resulting phenomenology. This dual perspective is not only very practical (if I ever find myself feeling overwhelmed by one, I can shift focus to the other), but also very engaging as I always find new things to learn and I never get bored.

What do you like about the cluster Quantum Universe? 

The Quantum Universe allows me to engage in many different activities. The QURS Days, in particular, stand out for me, offering a platform to deepen my knowledge on topics beyond my specific area of expertise. The prizes and awards are also very nice. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

I enjoy taking pictures, mostly analogue these days, and having drinks with friends.