Search for dark matter and supersymmetry with a compressed mass spectrum in the vector boson fusion topology in proton-proton collisions at sqrt(s) = 8 TeV

TL;DR

This paper reports a search for dark matter and supersymmetry using vector boson fusion at 8 TeV, setting limits on dark matter masses and bottom squark production with the CMS detector.

Contribution

It introduces a novel search strategy focusing on vector boson fusion topology to probe compressed mass spectra in dark matter and supersymmetry models.

Findings

No excess observed beyond standard model expectations.

Set new limits on dark matter interaction strength and bottom squark masses.

Demonstrated effectiveness of vector boson fusion topology in such searches.

Abstract

A first search for pair production of dark matter candidates through vector boson fusion in proton-proton collisions at sqrt(s) = 8 TeV is performed with the CMS detector. The vector boson fusion topology enhances missing transverse momentum, providing a way to probe supersymmetry also in the case of a compressed mass spectrum. The data sample corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 18.5 inverse femtobarns recorded by the CMS experiment. The observed dijet mass spectrum is consistent with the standard model expectation. In an effective field theory, dark matter masses are explored as a function of contact interaction strength. The most stringent limit on bottom squark production with mass below 315 GeV is also reported, assuming a 5 GeV mass difference with respect to the lightest neutralino.