The course presents the quantum field theory of the strong interaction (quantum chromodynamics, QCD) and discusses its applications to particle physics observables.

After a short introduction to the theoretical foundations and experimental tests of the standard model, grand unified theories, supersymmetry, leptoquarks, and hidden valley models will be treated among other topics. Thereby the phenomenological aspects, i.e. the search for new particles and interactions at existing and future particle accelerators will play a significant role.