Project start: 1.10.2025.

One of the most important open questions in physics is the description of gravity at the quantum scale. A possible discovery of quantum gravity (QG) would revolutionise science and technology and have an impact on society comparable to the discovery of quantum mechanics in the early 20th century. The basic problem of the search for QG is the lack of experimental measurements.

The focus of the proposed research is to measure the impact of phenomenological models of QG, based on the possible deviations from Lorentz symmetry (LIV), using very high-energy gamma-rays from astrophysical sources. The main goals of the research are (i) to develop an innovative method for data analysis based on simulations and machine learning and (ii) to compile a catalogue of astrophysical gamma-ray sources suitable for LIV research. An additional goal of the project will be preparation of applications for competitive research projects.

Team members from the University of Rijeka will work on the development of an analysis method based on artificial neural networks, using computer simulations derived from observations performed with the Fermi-LAT, CTAO-LST and MAGIC telescopes and on the properties of the future SWGO detector. Based on the same observations, we will establish a catalog of potentially usable gamma-ray sources. External collaborators are experts in the theory and phenomenology of LIV. With their help, we will determine the specific LIV models that will be tested and incorporate them in the analysis and the catalogue.

The project results will be published in relevant scientific journals in the field and at international scientific conferences.