According to modern cosmological theories, this happened in a violent quantum mechanical process called inflation, during which the Universe expanded by a factor of 1026 in 10-34 seconds! If this picture is correct, the entire Universe should today be filled with a background of gravitational waves.
However, the magnitude of this signal is very weak, and its amplitude probably accounts for no more than one part in 100 million of the general background. Extreme precision is required for its detection, both in terms of raw sensitivity and minimal astrophysical and instrumental contamination. Our group has implemented a state-of-the-art Monte Carlo sampler that addresses this analysis problem globally. However, in preparation of next generation experiments, it will be necessary to optimize this code to run efficiently on hundreds of thousands of cores. Leading this work is the main task of the selected PhD candidate.
During the course of the project, the successful candidate will spend significant time at Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA), and work with some of the world’s leading cosmologists. The candidate will become an expert in scientific and high-performance computing, as well as astrophysical modeling.
Requirements
- MSc in astronomy, physics or computational science.
- Candidates with documented experience in cosmology and/or scientific programming will be prioritized.
Supervisors
Professor Ingunn Kathrine Wehus
Call 1: Project start autumn 2021
This project is in call 1, starting autumn 2021. Read about how to apply