Model Independent Framework for Searches of Top Partners

TL;DR

This paper introduces a model-independent framework for analyzing top partner searches at the LHC, simplifying the interpretation of experimental data across various new physics models involving vector-like quarks.

Contribution

It develops a minimal, effective Lagrangian approach that connects experimental observables with top partner properties, applicable to multiple multiplet scenarios.

Findings

Clear relation between branching ratios and production channels

Identification of new promising channels for LHC searches

Numerical analysis of discovery and exclusion potential

Abstract

We propose a model-independent and general framework to study the LHC phenomenology of top partners, i.e. Vector-Like quarks including particles with different electro-magnetic charge. We consider Vector-Like quarks embedded in general representations of the weak SU(2)L, coupling to all Standard Model quarks via Yukawa mixing focusing on the case of a single multiplet. We show that, with very minimal and quite general assumptions, top partners may be studied in terms of few parameters in an effective Lagrangian description with a clear and simple connection with experimental observables. We also demonstrate that the parametrisation can be applied as well to cases with many Vector-like multiplets, thus covering most realistic models of New Physics. We perform a numerical study to understand the conclusions which can be drawn within such a description and the expected potential for discovery or exclusion at the LHC. Our main results are a clear connection between branching ratios and single production channels, and the identification of novel interesting channels to be studied at the LHC.