Project Overview

Theoretical simulations predict millions to hundreds of millions of stellar-mass black holes roaming through our Galaxy. However, there are only ~100 found so far. It is not currently clear whether this stark gap is due to observational challenges in finding black holes or whether our incomplete understanding of black hole formation and evolution is also to blame. On the heels of recent breakthroughs in discoveries of black holes, including detection of gravitational waves from merging black holes, and backed by data from state-of-the-art astronomical surveys, this project focuses on gaining a holistic view of black holes in our Galaxy.

Aims

The main aim in this project will be to characterize the black hole population of the Milky Way Galaxy. For example to understand what fraction of them are born or remain in binaries with other stars, and what are the barriers in identifying these systems observationally. Lastly, we aim to assess and verify theoretical predictions on the effects of properties such as chemical composition on the fate of black holes in our Galaxy.

Objectives

To gain a full picture of the black hole population in our Galaxy, we aim to combine novel theoretical simulations of black holes with data from nascent astronomical observatories and facilities. The project will involve generating new simulations and carrying out observations of black hole candidates. This research will explore and identify the factors contributing to the gap between theoretical simulations and observed samples of black holes.

Significance 

Black holes are among the most elusive objects in our universe. The recent advent of data-rich astronomical surveys (such as Gaia, LSST, ASKAP-EMU) enables a comprehensive view of the black hole population of our Milky Way galaxy. Adopting cutting-edge techniques across astronomical observations and theoretical simulations, this project will use these data to answer fundamental scientific questions about the population, mass distribution, and evolution of black holes. It will address a community-identified research priority, leverage existing Australian investments, and provide computational and statistical training. Expected outcomes include advances in astrophysical knowledge, enhanced national and international collaboration, and strong public engagement.

The project will be hosted at CIRA. CIRA is the Curtin University node of the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR), a joint venture with the University of Western Australia supported by the Western Australian State government. As such the successful candidate will be in a vibrant research environment with over 200 staff and students across the two ICRAR nodes working on a wide range of science, engineering and high- performance computing in the fields of radio astronomy, statistics and data science. 

Through ICRAR, CIRA is working to further Australia’s contribution to the international Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Observatory. The key science question being addressed in this PhD is closely linked to both the core scientific activities of CIRA and ICRAR and the SKA key science goals (such as the study of black holes and development of techniques for data intensive astronomy). 

On top of the standard University support for computing and travel, additional resources from ICRAR for these activities may be available if required. In particular, we typically send PhD students to the annual scientific meeting of the Astronomical Society of Australia to present their work, participate in training opportunities, and to network with their peers and more senior astronomers from around Australia.

• Future Students

• Faculty of Science & Engineering
  • Science courses
  • Engineering courses

• Higher Degree by Research

• Australian Citizen
• Australian Permanent Resident
• New Zealand Citizen
• Permanent Humanitarian Visa

• Merit Based

The annual scholarship package, covering both stipend and tuition fees, amounts to approximately $70,000 per year.

In 2024, the RTP stipend scholarship offers $35,000 per annum for a duration of up to three years. Exceptional progress and adherence to timelines may qualify students for a six-month completion scholarship.

Selection for these scholarships involves a competitive process, with shortlisted applicants notified of outcomes by November 2024.

1

All applicable HDR courses.

This opportunity is open to students with any science-oriented undergraduate background. Students with a background in physics/astronomy, mathematics/statistics, computer science, or data science are particularly encouraged to apply.

 

Please send your CV, academic transcripts and brief rationale why you want to join this research project via the HDR expression of interest form to the project lead researcher, listed below. 

You must be enrolled in a Higher Degree by Research Course at Curtin University by March 2025.

Project Lead: Dr Arash Bahramian