Competition for the position of PhD student in prof. Wojciech Hellwing's project

Project - Cosmic Laboratory of Baryons and Dark Matter (COLAB)
Promoter: dr hab. Wojciech Hellwing (prof. CTP PAS)
Institute: Center for Theoretical Physics PAS
Laboratory: Computational Cosmology Group
WWW: https://whellwing.weebly.com/
Description:
The physical nature of dark matter is one of the greatest puzzles in physics. Over the past few decades, an extensive research program has been initiated to determine the cosmological origin, fundamental components and interaction mechanisms of dark matter. So far, laboratory experiments have failed to detect elusive dark matter particles, and the only direct empirical measurements of dark matter properties have so far come from astrophysical and cosmological observations. In the coming decade, many large observational projects such as LSST, Euclid, DESI, 4HS, SKA will provide a flood of new data of unprecedented scale and precision. This makes the goal of searching for astrophysical observables optimal for constraining the nature and physics of dark matter urgent and pressing. We propose an ambitious programme of novel, systematic studies of the theoretical link between the microscopic physics of dark matter and the macroscopic properties of halo galaxies. We will search for observables that give the possibility to distinguish between three main models of molecular dark matter: cold (CDM), warm (WDM) and self-interacting (SIDM).

During the course of this project, the PhD student will acquire new and necessary skills and knowledge. The main task of this individual will be the construction and development of cosmological simulation codes and assisting in the execution, post-processing and participation in the analysis of numerical simulations.

Aim of the project:
The position is within the "COLAB" project, in which we will apply different Space Network identification algorithms to new high-resolution simulations of three dark matter variants. We will use state-of-the-art N-body and hydrodynamical schemes to generate artificial galaxy catalogues. The results will be used to test dark matter models, with the ultimate goal of finding the best environmental samples and observables for obtaining an astrophysical detection of dark matter.
Requirements:
We are looking for a highly motivated student. The ideal candidate will be:
- someone with a good background in theoretical physics and/or computational science with a relevant Master's degree in physics, astronomy or computational science,
- fluency in spoken and written English is required,
- documented participation in previous research projects will be an added advantage.
Our team is an affirmative action/equal opportunity group and values equal opportunity, human dignity and diversity, so women and minorities are especially encouraged to apply.

Made in Webflow