Nearly all galaxies host a supermassive black hole at their centre and there is now strong evidence that the evolution of the black hole and host galaxy are closely linked. This regulation process is known as ‘feedback’ and suggests that the relatively small black hole can influence the rate that the much larger galaxy forms stars. One of the prime mechanisms for this feedback are the powerful bipolar jets often emitted by black holes which produce bright radio emission.
Aim
Large multi-wavelength surveys provide a census of both jet power from the radio emission and the on-going star formation rates (SFRs) from the UV/optical/IR data in millions of sources. This project will leverage a consistent approach to measuring the star formation rates from modelling the UV/optical/IR to then compare to jet power and apply to a numerous state of the art surveys. The aim of this project will be to quantify how jet power varies with the host galaxy properties (SFR, stellar mass, star formation history, environment) and cosmic time.
Objectives
- Collate the latest radio data from numerous multi-wavelength surveys to identify those sources powered by radio jets.
- Search for correlation between the radio jet luminosity and the host galaxies’ properties over different epochs.
- Model the radio emission to obtain the jet power and age of the jet to compare to star formation history.
- Obtain follow-up data from ground and space based telescopes of the most promising candidates to catch the feedback process in action.
Significance
The process of feedback is a critical, but not well understood component of galaxy evolution. This project will be the first to self-consistently analyse numerous multi-wavelength surveys. It will support one of the key science goals of the SKA – tracing the evolution of galaxies over cosmic time.
Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a self-motivated PhD candidate with a background in physics, astronomy or computing/data science. Candidates with good computing skills (or a willingness to learn) are desired for this project. Additionally, the applicants should meet the eligibility criteria for entry into a PhD program at Curtin University.
This project is open to Domestic applicants only.
Scholarship
If you are identified as the preferred candidate for this project, you may be considered for an RTP scholarship.
Enquires and How to Apply
For enquires about this opportunity contact Dr Nick Seymour at Nick.Seymour@curtin.edu.au
To formally apply submit an Expression of Interest to Dr Nick Seymour during the Central Scholarship round (July 1st – July 31st 2026)