New Developments In The Quest For Discovering Axions And Axion-like Particles.

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Background

In the 1970s, chromodynamics (QCD), the overall theory of nuclear physics, suffered a serious flaw; it predicted an electric dipole of the neutron far larger than experimental bounds. Roberto Peccei and Helen Quinn reconfigured theory to eliminate the problem. That required the existence of a new particle, the axion. In addition, modern cosmology has some unexplained phenomena some of which could be explained by the existence of axions or axion-like particles. The field of experimental searches for the evidence of these particles is robust and on the cutting edge of particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology. There are many experimental searches in progress throughout the world. The time has come to review the recent progress, and to expose new ideas and techniques which are proposed based on new experimental- developments.

The goal is to produce a series of articles that clearly demonstrate that axion and the axion-like particle (ALP) searches comprise a dynamic and vibrant field of cutting-edge research, and to achieve this with a collection of articles that together paint a coherent picture of the field. These could include unconventional and speculative ideas, novel theory, phenomenology, and detection concepts that may be in early stages, however, already show promise. The series could include new technologies that have the promise to support future experimental efforts. The series could also include topical reviews in cases that they might have a stimulating effect on the field. After having made the case for the importance of the research, the goal is to demonstrate examples underway and potential future promising approaches.

The intended scope of the research topic is narrowly defined as research associated with the searches for axion like particles, however, broad within that topic in the sense that all promising experimental and theoretical approaches that have recent news would be welcome. We would keep the window open to somewhat speculative approaches if results exist to support the potential of that method. We would like to stay on the leading edge rather than to concentrate on well established results. In the language of the Journal, we would preferably invite: Methods, Review and Mini-Review, Hypothesis and Theory and Perspective articles. However, authors that request that their original results be included would certainly be included.

Keywords: QCD axions, axion-like particles, dark matter axions, experiments, techniques

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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