Unifying Inflation and Dark Matter with Neutrino Masses

Abstract

We propose a simple model where a gauge-invariant inflaton is responsible for cosmic inflation and generates the seed for structure formation, while its relic thermal abundance explains the missing matter of the Universe in the form of cold dark matter. The inflaton self-coupling also explains the observed neutrino masses. All the virtues can be attained in a minimal extension of the standard model gauge group around the TeV scale. We can also unveil these properties of an inflaton in forthcoming space and ground based experiments.