Data-Driven Hadronic Physics for the Precision Frontier

The most precise determinations of the hadronic vacuum polarization (HVP) rely on low-energy hadronic cross section measurements via rigorous data combination techniques and extract values for physics observables through dispersive integrals. These data-driven evaluations define the precision frontier for the muon g-2 and are central to testing whether the long-standing muon g-2 discrepancy is evidence of new physics. UCL leads the world’s most cited and most precise evaluations of both the HVP contribution to the muon g-2 and the running electromagnetic coupling - which are also crucial inputs for precision electroweak studies at the LHC and future colliders - and is a key contributor to the efforts of Muon g-2 Theory Initiative.

UCL develops and maintains the most precise open-access software and data framework for hadronic cross sections and the running coupling, providing the reference standard for global predictions. UCL is routinely incorporating new experimental data, advancing statistical treatments, and improving handling of systematic uncertaintines to ensure robust and transparent evaluations that not only provides world-leading precision but also probes directly for signs of new physics in the low-energy hadronic spectrum.

For more information, contact Dr Alex Keshavarzi