Research
Pulsars are very versatile tools for a large number of applications in fundamental physics and astrophysics. This is reflected in my research interests which are broadly listed below. Each section gives examples of some corresponding publications. Visit my publications page for a complete list.
I am also involved in planning future facilities such as the SKA and LOFAR and the exciting science that they will enable.
Gravitational Physics & Cosmology
Pulsars are very compact objects, exhibiting the strongest gravitational fields
next to black holes. Acting as cosmic lighthouses and precise cosmic clocks,
pulsars can be used to probe gravitational physics under strong-field conditions.
Determination of the Geometry of the PSR B1913+16 System by Geodetic Precession
Pulsars & Neutron star properties
Pulsars are known for 40 years, but our understanding of their emission across the
electromagnetic spectrum - in particular at radio frequencies - is still very limited.
Nevertheless, we can use pulsars to study the most extreme matter in the Universe!
Transient radio bursts from rotating neutron stars
Polarized radio emission from a magnetar
A Periodically Active Pulsar Giving Insight into Magnetospheric Physics
Galactic & Environmental Probes
Pulsar emission is affected by the ionized magnetic medium when the signals are
propagating to Earth. Studying the interaction allows us to use pulsars to probe the
Milky Way and the environment which they are found in.
Anomalous Scattering of Highly Dispersed Pulsars
Binary & Stellar Evolution
Pulsars are the remnant of massive stars, born in supernova explosions. Frequently,
they have a companion which can spin-up the pulsar to millisecond periods after its
normal “death”, producing recycled pulsars and perhaps double neutron star systems.
The Proper Motion, Age, and Initial Spin Period of PSR J0538+2817 in S147
PSR J1756-2251: A New Relativistic Double Neutron Star System
A Double-Pulsar System: A Rare Laboratory for Relativistic Gravity and Plasma Physics
