Dr Steven Janowiecki

I am interested in observing the evolution of galaxies, especially in nearby universe where we can obtain the most detailed information about galaxies. In collaboration with astronomers around the world, we use multi-wavelength snapshots of galaxies at various stages of their evolution to piece together the story of how galaxies evolved from the Big Bang to the present day universe. Some nearby galaxies are “relics” of the early universe — gas-rich and metal-poor systems can act as analogues for the first galaxies. Except, unlike the first galaxies whose light has been red-shifted and faded while crossing the universe over cosmic time, these “relics” are right in our (cosmic) backyard and can be observed in great detail. Whether actively forming stars (like Blue Compact Dwarf galaxies), or refusing to participate in star formation (like ALFALFA Almost Dark galaxies), the local universe provides a wealth of information about the cosmic processes in galaxy evolution. In other work, we have found evidence for ongoing accretion of HI from cosmic flows in xGASS group central galaxies.

I am also passionate about outreach and teaching, whether in a classroom, under a dark sky, or in any other context.

For more details on ongoing research projects (and much much more), please visit:

https://sites.google.com/site/sjanowie/