Agnostic search for a vector-like top partner at a lepton collider via the recoil mass technique

Abstract

A study of the single production of a vector-like top partner $T$ at a $\sqrt{s}=3$ TeV $e^{+}e^{-}$ collider is presented, using a decay-mode and mass-agnostic event selection built around the recoil mass observable. The analysis relies on fully simulated samples processed through a common reconstruction and event selection chain. The baseline selection is validated without beam polarization or initial-state radiation (ISR). The impact of more realistic running conditions, including ISR together with an $e^{-}$ beam polarization of $-80\%$, is then evaluated and the discovery reach is mapped as a function of the top partner mass $m_{T}$ and coupling strength $\kappa_{T}$. In the baseline scan, the estimated statistical significance rises above $3\sigma$ for the lowest benchmark masses once $\kappa_{T}$ exceeds approximately 0.3.