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Dwarf galaxies in context: connecting their physical and dynamical properties with the cosmic web

Project description

Encompassing the cosmic web’s role in the formation of dwarf galaxies

The foundation of modern cosmology is based on the ‘Λ + cold dark matter’ (ΛCDM) model that predicts how the vast network of matter in the universe drives galactic evolution. However, galaxy formation models in the ΛCDM framework are being called into question by recent observations of low-mass dwarf galaxies from the early universe. This implies that existing models disregard the cosmic web’s impact on dwarf galaxies, which are often studied in isolation. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the CWEBDWARFS project aims to create novel galactic evolution models, incorporating the cosmic web’s impact on the internal, physical and dynamical properties of dwarf galaxies. These unique insights will help maintain the integrity of the ΛCDM model.

Objective

The 'Λ + cold dark matter' (ΛCDM) model is the cornerstone of modern cosmology. It successfully predicts the emergence of the cosmic web; a vast, filamentary network comprising all matter in the Universe that drives the evolution of galaxies. However, recent JWST observations of low-mass dwarf galaxies from the early Universe challenge key predictions of galaxy formation models within the ΛCDM framework. This could signal a fundamental issue with ΛCDM or reflect that dwarf galaxies are currently poorly understood. Crucially, existing models overlook the impact of the cosmic web on dwarf galaxies, which are often studied in isolation despite their sensitivity to their environment. This risks misinterpreting observations and obstructing efforts to test ΛCDM rigorously. The primary objective of this project is to develop novel models encapsulating the impact of the cosmic web on the internal physical and dynamical properties of dwarf galaxies. With the rapid influx of new dwarf galaxy observations from flagship observatories, and the promise of orders of magnitude more data from upcoming next-generation facilities, developing these models is not just timely but critical. They will unlock the full potential of this transformative data and offer unparalleled insights into the fundamental processes shaping galaxies.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Programme(s)

Topic(s)

Funding Scheme

HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships

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Call for proposal

(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01

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Coordinator

UNIVERSITY OF SURREY
Net EU contribution
€ 260 347,92
Address
Stag Hill
GU2 7XH Guildford
United Kingdom
Region
South East (England) Surrey, East and West Sussex West Surrey
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost
No data