Gravitational waveform modeling with physics informed neural networks and surrogates
This seminar discusses a proof-of-concept gravitational-waveform model described in arXiv:2511.10522. It augments post-Newtonian equations using physics-informed neural-network methods and universal differential equations. The talk also covers ongoing development of a precessing surrogate model designed to evaluate in less than one millisecond while covering a broader portion of the LVK frequency band.
Unveiling a fast (and furious) early universe with JWST
JWST observations reveal sources earlier and brighter than anticipated. This talk examines their implications for cosmological and galaxy-formation models. It considers the unexpectedly numerous galaxies during the first few hundred million years, at redshifts above nine, and how cosmological clustering measurements can distinguish competing explanations. It then presents an initial empirical measurement of the dependence of star-formation variability, or burstiness, on galaxy mass, which may help explain the excess. Finally, it discusses tensions between JWST measurements of reionization and evidence from the cosmic microwave background and Lyman-alpha forest, including implications for DESI’s recent dark-energy results.
Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Stellar Populations / Evolution of Galaxies / Artificial Intelligence
The FICOSS-AI project will develop an open-source pipeline integrating astrophysical models, spectral diagnostics and AI to study stellar populations and galaxy evolution. The fellow will combine machine learning, population-synthesis models and spectral-analysis tools, contribute to publications and mentor students technically. The expected start is 1 February 2027, or earlier if needed. Apply by 2 November 2026 with a CV, publication list and research-interest statement; two recommendation letters must be sent directly by referees as described on the official advertisement.
Exploring exoplanets with the Pandora Space Telescope
University of Arizona planetary scientist Daniel Apai joins Tim Swindle to discuss the Pandora Space Telescope and its potential to reveal the properties of exoplanets and their atmospheres. This Arizona Science episode examines the scientific questions addressed by the observatory as it returns data from Earth orbit. Published on 10 September 2026; listen through Arizona Public Media’s episode page.
When Supermassive Black Holes Get Hungry
Saavik Ford gives a public lecture in the Simons Foundation's 2026 Black Holes series, which examines black holes from stellar remnants to supermassive galactic objects through observational breakthroughs and theoretical advances.