About the project
How do black holes grow? In this PhD project the student will use observations and physical models to investigate how gas is transported across the galaxy all the way to the black hole, to fuel its growth.
Supermassive black holes live in the centre of galaxies and grow by the accretion of gas from their surroundings. This process of black hole growth occurs throughout the evolution of the Universe and powers some of the most spectacular and energetic events we can observe: Active Galactic Nuclei.
In this project the student will investigate the physics behind how the gas is transported to the black hole. For this purpose, the student will analyse observations of gas in different phases (atomic, ionised and molecular) and apply physical models to study:
- the mechanisms by which the gas is transported to the black hole
- how much gas is transported in total, which controls the rate of growth of the black hole.
The data will consist of observations from state-of-the-art telescopes, such as the Very Large Telescope and Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), and you will have the opportunity to propose and plan for further observations.
You'll be part of a local research group at Southampton working on the multiwavelength properties of black holes and galaxies.
You'll also be connected to a wider international research team, with opportunities for visits and training.
You will receive training on the analysis of optical integral field observations and sub-millimetre interferometry observations.
The School of Physics & Astronomy is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.
