THE origins of the universe and the meaning of everything is to be discussed when some of the world's leading physicists gather in the region this weekend.
About 250 of the UK's most eminent particle physics theorists met at Durham University yesterday for a three-day conference.
Among the principal speakers are leading academics from Moscow, Geneva and the US for the Annual Theory Meeting, held in Durham for the past four years.
Professor James Stirling, director of the university's Institute for Particle Phenomenology, said : "This is a really high-profile and large gathering of some of the world's leading academics in the field of particle physics research, for the purpose of exchanging news and views on the latest developments and theories."
Among the subjects being discussed are String Theory, Phenomenology from Twistor Space and Can anyone tell Supersymmetry (from anything else) in a hole in the ground?'
"Although this is essentially a gathering of academic experts, we do encourage postgraduate students and other young researchers to take an interest and to take advantage of hearing from some of the world's best physicists," said Prof Stirling.
The Annual Theory Meeting delegates are based in Grey College and talks take place in the Appleby Lecture Theatre, in the Geography Department, at the university's science site, off South Road, Durham.
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