Massive galaxies: tracers of extreme density peaks in the early universe?

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The formation of the most massive galaxies poses one of the biggest challenges to our understanding of how structures evolved in the early universe. We identify these galaxies from their powerful radio emission, signalling the presence of a central supermassive black hole which converts infalling matter into radiation and energetic particles. Our goal is to determine the role played by the environments of these galaxies in allowing them to grow so large. This project addresses questions of key importance to Australian and international astronomy, and stands to enhance the prospects of Australia being chosen as the site for the international Square Kilometre Array.