Many of the most well motivated theories of beyond the Standard Model (BSM) physics from the pre- LHC era postulated new states at the TeV scale. However, results from the recently completed Run-II of the LHC have indicated that the next fundamental scale of nature is likely higher. With upcoming runs of the LHC not expected to dramatically increase the reach of the machine, it is appropriate to re-evaluate theoretical approaches to seeking the next scale of fundamental physics in an era which may be lacking data from colliders.
Cosmology can provide a window into energy scales far beyond those which are accessible with terrestrial particle colliders. Contrary to the situation in high-energy particle physics, there are already many terrestrial and space-based cosmological experiments planned over the next few decades. Indeed, the next major insights in fundamental physics may come from cosmological data rather than colliders. Consequently, strengthening connections between particle physics and cosmology will be essential so that these experiments can be used to guide the approach of BSM particle physicists until the next frontier collider can be constructed. Such a scenario is mutually beneficial, since theoretical input from particle physics could also help to guide the planning of next generation cosmological experiments.
The goal of this Scientific Program is to bring together experts in order to explore new directions and unconventional approaches in fundamental particle physics, cosmology, and quantum field theory. The Scientific Program will include discussion on what the modern approaches to BSM physics should be, and how e.g. we can use links between particle physics and cosmology to guide this philosophy. The desired outcome of the event is to identify, taking into account the experiments that will have data in the next decade, what the most well-motivated approaches to BSM physics in the modern era are and to begin new projects/collaborations working in these directions.