Evolution and Spatial Distribution of Stellar [Mg/Fe] Trends in Massive Galaxies in cosmological simulations

Project Description:

Building upon the foundational Honours project which characterises global [Mg/Fe] ratios at z=0, this Master's level research track investigates the spatially resolved evolution of chemical enrichment in group and cluster central galaxies. Modern Integral Field Unit (IFU) observations, such as MaNGA, reveal complex radial gradients in stellar populations that challenge simple ``monolithic collapse" scenarios. This project utilises the various cosmological simulations, such as Simba-C and IllustrisTNG to track the progenitors of today's massive galaxies across cosmic time. By examining the interplay between star formation histories, AGN feedback, and the chemical enrichment modules, this study seeks to determine the physical drivers behind the observed alpha-enhancement and how these chemical signatures are distributed spatially within the galaxy halos.

Research Area:

Astronomy

Project Level:

Masters

This Project Is Offered At The Following Node(s):

(NWU)

Special Requirements:

The student should have a strong proficiency in Python and experience with large-scale data analysis. Prior experience with hydrodynamical simulations or galactic chemical enrichment models is highly advantageous.