9627460 DeWitt B. DeWitt from the University of Texas will study methods to develop a quantum theory of gravity and elementary particles without the use of `ghost fields', local fields which have traditionally been incorporated in the field theory description of high energy physics. Ghost fields were originally included in order to preserve as much symmetry as possible in the theory, since this allows ease of calculation. A ghost-free description will be useful in providing us with a theory which only involves physical degrees of freedom at all stages of the calculation. This work is part of a successful program to bring gravity and elementary particle physics on a more equal conceptual footing, thereby enhancing our deeper understanding of both fields. ***
