Join Zoom Meeting: https://lbnl.zoom.us/j/94928022788?pwd=emVQWG1mTnhSbHVqekVuenk0VEVQZz09

Title: The Waning of the WIMP: From Strong Freeze-In to the Sub-GeV Frontier

Abstract: Weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) have long been among the most compelling dark matter candidates, motivated in part by the so-called WIMP miracle. However, despite extensive searches through direct, indirect, and collider probes, no conclusive signal has yet been established. In this talk, I will explore two alternatives beyond the conventional WIMP paradigm. First, I will show how a low reheating temperature can enhance the experimental prospects for freeze-in dark matter by allowing significantly larger couplings. I will then turn to sub-GeV dark matter, where interactions with electrons and solar reflection can open new opportunities for direct detection. Together, these scenarios illustrate how dark matter can remain experimentally accessible beyond the standard WIMP picture.