Updated search for the standard model Higgs boson in events with jets and missing transverse energy using the full CDF data set

TL;DR

This paper reports an updated search for the Higgs boson in events with jets and missing transverse energy using the full CDF dataset, introducing a new b-jet identification algorithm to improve sensitivity.

Contribution

The analysis incorporates a specialized b-jet identification algorithm optimized for H→bb̄ searches, enhancing the sensitivity of the Higgs search in the V H final state.

Findings

Expected limits improved by 14% on average over previous analysis.

Observed limit at 125 GeV/c² is 3.06 times the Standard Model prediction.

One of the most sensitive searches in this final state to date.

Abstract

We present an updated search for the Higgs boson produced in association with a vector boson in the final state with missing transverse energy and two jets. We use the full CDF data set corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9.45 fb${}^{-1}$ at a proton-antiproton center-of-mass energy of $\sqrt{s}=1.96$ TeV. New to this analysis is the inclusion of a $b$-jet identification algorithm specifically optimized for $H\to b\bar{b}$ searches. Across the Higgs boson mass range $90 \le m_H \le 150$ GeV$/c^2$, the expected 95% credibility level upper limits on the $V H$ production cross section times the $H\to b\bar{b}$ branching fraction are improved by an average of 14% relative to the previous analysis. At a Higgs boson mass of 125 GeV$/c^2$, the observed (expected) limit is 3.06 (3.33) times the standard model prediction, corresponding to one of the most sensitive searches to date in this final state.