Dynamics of compact objects in dense star clusters and implications for gravitational wave detections

The Ligo-Virgo interferometers have already detected 50 binary black hole mergers and hundreds to come. This new set of data will provide important clues to the properties of compact objects such as black holes and neutron stars and to the environments in which they form. The development of a theoretical understanding of the processes leading to compact object coalescence is required, which will enable to analyse and interpret the large number of new detections.

Merging compact-object binaries can form as the result of: (i) the evolution of massive binary stars in the field of a galaxy; and (ii) dynamical interactions in the secular evolution of star clusters. We will make the first precise prediction for scenario (ii), which we will compare to gravitational wave data from Ligo and Virgo to establish whether binary black hole mergers come predominantly from clusters or the galactic field.

The student will develop a numerical framework based on state-of-the-art software to make predictions for the gravitational waves produced by merging compact-objects in dense star clusters. By comparing the predictions of theoretical models to observations they will determine how the gravitational wave sources detected by LIGO-Virgo are formed.

Astrophysics has entered a new Golden Age. Advanced LIGO and VIRGO are operational; new detectors such as KAGRA and LIGO India will soon come online, and LISA will fly in 2030s. This project will provide a theoretical framework for the physical interpretation of this wealth of unprecedented new data.

This project will be funded by the STFC.
Applicants should apply to the Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Astronomy with a start date of 1st October 2021.

How to Apply:

Applicants should submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University webpages (https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/physics-and-astronomy) including:

• an upload of your CV
• a personal statement/covering letter
• two references
• Current academic transcripts

Applicants should select Doctor of Philosophy, with a start date of October 2021.

In the research proposal section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project. If you are applying for more than one project, please list the individual titles of the projects in the text box provided. In the funding section, please select ’I will be applying for a scholarship/grant’ and specify that you are applying for advertised funding from the STFC. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview in February.

Entry requirements:

Candidates should have obtained, or be about to obtain a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree in Physics, or a related subject, Alternatively, applicants with equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK will also be considered. Applicants with a Lower Second Class degree will be considered if they also have a Master’s degree.

Applicants whose first language is not English are normally expected to meet the minimum University requirements (e.g. 6.5 IELTS)
Please see our English Language Requirements guidance (https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/international/english-language-requirements) for more details.