Galaxy formation and the chemistry of stars

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

My research is primarily directed at observational tests of galaxy formation scenarios. By determining the chemical signatures for various stellar populations from halo field stars, to globular clusters, to stars in a variety of dwarf galaxies, then we can reconstruct the chemical evolution of each system and compare that with predictions for the merger history of the Local Group from semi-analytic models and N-body simulations. In this NSERC renewal, I outline two new MSc projects, two new PhD projects, and a project that requires PDF expertise, all within my research goals and collaborations. The PDF project involves modeling of the chemical evolution of the Carina dwarf galaxy from the detailed chemical abundance ratios that I am currently calculating from high resolution spectra of its RGB stars; this position will bring new expertise to UVic while also complementing the existing resources. The PhD projects include (1) the analysis of the metallicity, kinematics, and ages of the various stellar populations in the isolated dwarf irregular galaxies, particularly of the old stellar populations to compare with models of protogalactic fragments, and (2) the detailed analysis of stars in outer halo globular clusters to determine the homogeneity and origins of the outer Galactic halo. This latter project would begin as an MSc project. The other MSc project includes the detailed chemical analysis of stars in the new ultra faint dwarf galaxies which may harbour the most metal-poor stars in the Local Group. An additional project on the effects of dust on the chemistry of metal-poor stars is outlined herein. These projects are part of the new program in stellar chemistry at UVic, which compliments the existing strong programs in stellar evolution and galaxy formation, as well as a newly developing program in stellar nucleosynthesis.