Kulkarni, Suchita, Priv.-Doz. Dr.

I lead a group on dark matter and neutrino phenomenology at the Institute of Physics of the University of Graz. The main aim of my research is to connect theoretically abstract ideas to the experimental signatures and understand the implications of current experimental results for theory parameter space. 

My research is driven by two questions. First, what is the nature of the gravitational component of the Universe which can be felt but can not be seen? This is so called dark matter and occupied about 85% of the matter density in the Universe. We have enough evidence that it exists in the Universe, however we have not yet identified the fundamental laws governing this sector. Second, is the mystery of the neutrino masses. In the Standard Model of particle physics, the neutrinos have tiny masses, where do these masses come from and how can we identify such neutrino mass generation mechanisms at experiments forms another angle of my reserch. 

I am also active in outreach. If you are interested in hosting a talk by me at your school/university/institute please do not hesitate to contact me.