The book Modern Particle Physics by Mark Thomson (University of Cambridge) is a complete and updated manual that covers all aspects of modern high-energy physics. The book vividly describes the connection between theoretical and experimental developments, including the relatively recent discovery of the Higgs boson at the LHC.

It provides the reader with a comprehensive description of the Standard Model of particle physics, clearly aimed at both undergraduate and graduate students interested in elementary particle physics and particle astrophysics. The theory is introduced in an accessible manner, while the necessary mathematical formalism is also provided to help students tackle the problems.

In addition, a multitude of examples allows students to connect the mathematical description and theoretical framework with contemporary experiments at CERN and other particle physics laboratories. The exercises at the end of each chapter, with varying degrees of difficulty, provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the topics addressed in the book. An essential textbook for anyone looking to deeply understand fundamental physics and engage in research in this exciting field of science.

A useful undergraduate handbook that offers an excellent introduction to one of the most exciting areas of modern physics. It combines a pedagogical approach that starts from basic principles and provides a comprehensive picture of the latest developments in particle physics, including the discovery of the Higgs boson. Highly recommended for both students and teachers.

Mark Thomson is a Professor of Experimental Particle Physics at the University of Cambridge. He has authored over 1,000 scientific studies. He obtained his degree in physics (1988) and his PhD (1992) in particle physics from the University of Oxford. He then worked for two years as a research associate at University College London and subsequently at CERN for about six years. At CERN, he played a key role in precision measurements of the properties of W and Z bosons with the OPAL experiment at the LEP accelerator.

In 2000, he moved to the University of Cambridge. His research spans various fields, such as neutrino physics and physics at future accelerators. Today, he is at the forefront of elementary particle physics in both neutrino physics and accelerator physics, as well as in detector technologies. Since 2018, he has also been the CEO of the UK's Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).