Research on intergalactic magnetic fields and cosmic rays

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The aim of my proposed research is to advance our incomplete understanding of the interactions between ionized gas and magnetic fields in astrophysical contexts. Our currently incomplete understanding of the physics of magneto-plasmas needs to be advanced to solving many important problems in extragalactic astronomy, and Earth-related challenges, in particular thermonuclear fusion. The latter includes magnetic confinement and energy transport out of a the multimillion degree fusion plasma that will one day be a primary source of the world's energy. Another is to understand the  conversion of the black hole infall energy via collimated "jets" into magnetic energy with an efficiency of 10% or more. This is one of the fundamental unsolved problems of modern physics. Magnetic energy feedback out of galaxies into the intergalactic medium is central to much of the research proposed in my Disvovery Grant application. knowledge of these feedback processes are essential to fully understand and simulate the formation of galaxy systems and cosmological structure.      The enormous scalability of the magneto-plasma phenomena from laboratory (and fusion reactor) on scales of cm - metres, to the earth's magnetosphere and intergalactic scales, combined with rapidly improving simulation science creates important opportunities for the study of astrophysical magnetic fields. Despite their fundamental importance for the future of technology and knowledge, MHD and plasma science is an underrepresented reseach activity in Canada. My present and proposed research is aimed at advancing this important knowledge sector.