Thesis Supervisors:б Vincenzo Mainieri / Paolo Padovani
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Abstract
Theoretical models of AGN radiative feedback predict that AGN-driven, galaxy wide massive outflows are not a rare and peculiar phenomenon, but a fundamental process affecting the bulk of the baryons in the universe. Currently, sparse observational evidence of AGN feedback exists at z>1 but mostly limited to high luminosity objects, therefore a comprehensive picture is still far from being reached. The time is ripe for a systematic approach.
We recently (October 1st 2015) started an ESO Large Program (SUPER, 280 hours with SINFONI) aimed at carrying out the first statistically-sound investigation of ionized outflows in AGN host galaxies at the peak epoch of AGN and galaxy assembly, z~2. SUPER is designed to map the ionized gas kinematics ([OIII], Ha, Hb) with ~1 kpc spatial resolution, by exploiting the SINFONI AO capabilities, in a sample probing four orders of magnitude in AGN bolometric luminosity.
We are offering a PhD project to exploit this rich dataset. In the first part of the project the successful candidate will learn state of the art techniques to reduce IFU data. б He/she will then use these observations to compare frequency, mass, mass flow rate and momentum rate of ionized outflows with AGN bolometric luminosities and Eddington ratio to constraint the physical models of AGN outflows.б Finally the morphology of the fast outflowing gas versus quiescent star-forming gas will be used to probe the effect of such outflows on the star-formation processes and galaxy evolution.
The student will interact with a team of more than 30 people spread over 3 continents and with broad expertise from theory to observations.
