The Matrix Element Method at next-to-leading order QCD using the example of single top-quark production at the LHC

Understand

Analyses in high energy physics aim to put the Standard Model---the commonly accepted theory---to test.

• For convincing conclusions, analysis methods are needed which offer an unambiguous comparison between data and theory while allowing reliable estimates of uncertainties.
• The Matrix Element Method (MEM) is a Maximum Likelihood method which is especially tailored for signal searches and parameter estimation at colliders.
• The MEM has proven to be beneficial due to optimal use of the available information and a clean statistical interpretation of the results.