Higher Degree by Research Application Portal

Why do galaxies have such a remarkable diversity of sizes, shapes, and spins? Are these properties were determined by conditions in the early Universe, or did they emerged through billions of years of cosmic evolution? These are among the most fundamental unsolved questions in modern astrophysics.

This PhD project will combine cutting-edge machine learning techniques with state-of-the-art cosmological simulations to investigate the origins of galaxy diversity and the connection between galaxies and the dark matter halos in which they form. By analysing large simulation datasets, the project will explore which galaxy properties are encoded in the primordial density field shortly after the Big Bang, and which arise from subsequent evolutionary processes such as mergers, gas accretion, and feedback from stars and black holes.

The research sits at the intersection of astrophysics, data science, and artificial intelligence, offering the opportunity to work with some of the largest and most sophisticated simulations ever performed. The outcomes will help reveal how the initial conditions of the Universe shape the galaxies we observe today.

The student will develop highly sought-after skills in computational astrophysics, scientific programming, machine learning, and large-scale data analysis. These skills are readily transferable to careers in academia, industry, and the technology sector. The student will also have opportunities to engage with industry partners and gain experience applying advanced data-science techniques to real-world challenges.

Aaron Ludlow: aaron.ludlow@uwa.edu.au

MSc in Physics, Astrophyics, or related field

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a program of independent, supervised research that is assessed solely on the basis of a thesis, sometimes including a creative work component, that is examined externally. The work presented for a PhD must be a substantial and original contribution to scholarship, demonstrating mastery of the subject of interest as well as an advance in that field of knowledge. 

Visit the course webpage for full details of this course including admission requirements, course rules and the relevant CRICOS code/s.