KILOGAS: Connecting the Interstellar Medium, Feedback, and Galaxy Evolution Cardiff University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Cardiff University, titled 'KILOGAS: Connecting the Interstellar Medium, Feedback, and Galaxy Evolution,' offers an exciting opportunity to investigate the physical processes that govern galaxy formation and evolution. The interstellar medium (ISM), a reservoir of molecular gas, is central to star formation, yet the efficiency of this process varies widely among galaxies. The project leverages data from KILOGAS, a pioneering survey using the ALMA telescope, which will provide kiloparsec-scale CO(2–1) maps for approximately 500 galaxies—a tenfold increase over previous studies. These galaxies also benefit from resolution-matched optical integral field spectroscopy from the SAMI and MaNGA surveys, offering rich complementary data on stellar populations, ionised gas, and kinematics.

The research aims to answer fundamental questions about the morphology and distribution of the ISM, the triggers and regulators of star formation, and the impact of galaxy dynamics, stellar potentials, and feedback from supernovae or black holes. The project also explores how galaxies interact with their larger-scale environments. Depending on your interests, you may supplement the KILOGAS dataset with data from other world-class facilities such as IRAM, APEX, MeerKAT, HST, JWST, and Euclid, as well as numerical simulations. You will join a large international collaboration at the forefront of galaxy evolution research, gaining hands-on experience in data analysis, multi-wavelength astronomy, and the interpretation of cutting-edge observations.

The position is fully funded for 3.5 years by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), covering tuition fees, a UKRI standard stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26), and additional support for training, research, and conference expenses. The scholarship is open to both UK/home and international students, with no fee difference for international candidates. Applicants should hold or expect to gain a first-class degree or a good 2.1 (or equivalent) in Engineering, Physics, or a related subject, and possess desirable skills in Quantum Physics, Optics, Semiconductors, Technology, Physics, and Engineering.

English language proficiency is required (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in sub-scores). The application process involves submitting an academic CV, degree certificates and transcripts, a personal statement (max 500 words), and two academic references (a third is recommended if both are from the same department). Applications are welcome from individuals wishing to work part-time or full-time, and the university strongly encourages applications from underrepresented groups. The School of Physics & Astronomy is Juno Practitioner accredited, and Cardiff University is committed to responsible research assessment and equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Applications may be submitted in Welsh or English. The deadline for applications is 9 January 2026, with a start date of 1 October 2026.