The relationship between dark matter and peculiar velocities: Newtechniques and tests with numerical simulations

During this research I will contribute to our growing understanding of dark matter and dark energy by applying and extending the theoretical framework of simulation and modeling of how dark matter couples via gravity to induce measureable peculiar velocities. As a result of this work Dr. Lavaux and I hope to produce a large set of randomly generated universe simulations which can be used to confirm how peculiar velocities and the systematic and random errors associated with measuring them can depend upon the cosmology of the simulation. In working with both Dr. Lavaux, Dr. Jens Jasche, and I will also contribute to constructing a constrained simulation matching the 2M++ catalogue. I will also work with Dr. Lavaux in developing an alternative to maximum likelihood and minimum variance velocity reconstruction measures for cosmology surveys. These works will help understand gravity and constrain the formation history and composition of the universe.

Faculty Supervisor:

Michael Hudson

Student:

Partner:

Université Pierre et Marie Curie

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: