FLC Polarimetry
List of possible thesis topics (Master/Diploma and PhD)
Quartz-based Cherenkov detector
Design (simulation), construction and operation of a quartz-based Cherenkov detector for ILC polarimetry. Employing quartz as a Cherenkov medium it should be possible to construct a "self-calibrating" detector, since quartz leads to a much higher light yield than any of the usually used Cherenkov gases. In addition it should be studied which type of photomultiplier is better suited to detect this larger amount of Cherenkov radiation: conventional photomultipliers or possibly silicon-based photomultipliers (SiPMs).
Master/Diploma thesis
- feasibilty study (simulation) for a prototype detector (a/o an ILC-like, multiple-channel detector)
- simulation (and design) of a quartz-based prototype detector with SiPM readout
- prototype construction, as well as laboratory tests (basic functionality) and data analysis
PhD thesis
- full testbeam operation of the prototype including data analysis
Polarimeter calibration
Compton polarimetry relies on the measurement of the spacial distribution of about 1000 Compton scattered electrons per particle bunch in a (multi-channel) Cherenkov detector. Testbeam measurements showed that position resolution within a single detector channel can be achieved by employing segmented photodetectors. The impact of such an improvement on the actual polarisation determination needs to be evaluated by means of simulations and further testbeam data.
Master thesis or part of an PhD thesis
- Ideally, a calibration scheme/technique applicable at the ILC should be developed.
Moveable stage for testbeam operation
Together with the design and construction of a new quartz-based Cherenkov detector (see first topic), a moveable stage has to be designed including the necessary software for its operation. Ideally, its functionality and operability should be tested using the DESY-II testbeam capabilities.
Master thesis or part of an PhD thesis
- The stage should be moveable along the x- and y-axes, preferably with sub-mm precision, and
- it should be tiltable around all three axes in 0.2-degree steps (or less).
Supervisor: Jenny List