New physics searches with LUX and LZ

The frontier of experimental particle physics research, especially astroparticle physics, frequently involves the detection of signals that are both rare (fewer than an event per year per kilogram), and small (energy depositions at the keV scale). A prime example is the direct search for dark matter, although other signatures for new physics are also being sought, such as axions and various neutrino signals. The key technology that has evolved to meet this challenge is that of the ultra low background two-phase time projection chamber, deployed deep underground. The Large Underground Xenon (LUX) instrument was a leading device of this type. Now dismantled to make way for its successor, analysis of legacy data continues. The main scientific results of LUX are presented. With 50 times larger fiducial (usable) mass, and increased background rejection power, LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ) is presently under construction and is due to take first data in 2020. It will have a sensitivity at least two orders of magnitude beyond current best limits for the leading dark matter candidates. An overview of the LZ experiment is presented.