“One Equation to Rule them all: A Hunt for a grand unified theory”

"One Equation to Rule them all: A Hunt for a Grand Unified Theory"
With Dr Jordan Barber

Details:

At the turn of the twentieth century, many physicists believed they were close to understanding all there was to know about the physical world. Sure, they still hadn't found the mysterious ether through which light was thought to travel, nor could they fully explain why hot objects emit the spectrum of light that they do. But these were only small gaps in our understanding and were surely destined to be reconciled soon... right?
In this talk, we will explore how these seemingly "unimportant" gaps ultimately sparked two of the greatest scientific revolutions in history: quantum mechanics and Einstein's theories of relativity. From the counter-intuitive, probabilistic world of atoms to the curvature of space and time itself, both theories have been tested to extraordinary precision. Yet despite their success, they remain fundamentally incompatible. This leaves us with one of the biggest questions in modern physics: how do we unite them into a single, coherent description of nature?
Come and join us as we trace the century-long search for a "Theory of Everything" and explore some of the leading modern approaches, including string theory and loop quantum gravity, that seek to unify our understanding of the Universe.

Jordan completed his undergraduate integrated Master’s (MPhys) degree at Cardiff University, where his dissertations focused on the computational analysis of gravitational-wave bursts from pulsar glitches and gamma-ray bursts. He then completed his PhD at Cardiff University in 2025, working with Dr Fabio Antonini. His thesis specialised in understanding the formation and evolution of compact binaries in dense stellar clusters, and how these environments shape the gravitational waves they produce.

Venue:
The Landor Pub
70 Landor Rd
SW9 9PH
4 minute walk from Clapham North tube station (Northern line). 

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet/baby friendly?

Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.

Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.