Along with my students and colleagues, I study the formation, evolution, structure, and distribution of galaxies.
Research topics involve our own Milky Way, stellar populations in external galaxies, galaxy dynamics,
properties of field and cluster galaxies, distribution of visible and dark matter in the Universe,
numerical simulations of galaxies, and testing cosmologically-motivated structure formation models.
Central to my research efforts is the development of original tests to elucidate fundamental
theoretical and/or empirical puzzles in extragalactic astronomy.
My research also involves compiling extensive data bases for structural parameters of nearby galaxies.
Through observing programs that I lead, or via collaborations, my students have access to some of the best
observational research facilities worldwide.
Research Opportunities
I welcome applications from students interested in exploring topics
in Galactic and Extragalactic Astronomy at the MSc or PhD level. All students
accepted into the physics program at Queen's are guaranteed full funding
for two years for an MSc or four years for a PhD. Research topics range
from stellar populations in globular clusters and nearby galaxies to the
dynamical modelling of galaxies and the distribution of dark matter in
the universe, and involve a mix of observational projects, data modeling,
numerical analysis and simulations. My students travel all over the world
to present their research at conferences and workshops or to attend
winter/summer schools or for astronomical observations. I typically
supervise extremely driven students, and care very much about their
future career.
I hope to add one new student to my research group starting in
September 2012. Students are encouraged to apply early in 2012
(before Feb 15th) though applications will be considered until
the research position is filled.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Stéphane Courteau with former advisor Sandra Faber and grand-advisor Vera Rubin
and some of Stéphane's current and former students. Left to right: Jonathan Sick,
Joel Roediger, Stéphane Courteau, Sandra Faber, Vera Rubin, Aaron Dutton, Lauren
MacArthur, Mike McDonald, Kelly Foyle, and Melanie Hall. Taken at the
"Galaxy Masses" workshop at Queen's
University in June 2009 (click on "Gallery" for more photos).
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