This is an observation-driven project that combines multi-wavelength data from state-of-the-art facilities — primarily ALMA and JWST, with complementary VLA observations — to investigate how gas is accreted, processed, and expelled in and around galaxies during the peak epoch of star formation and black hole growth.
Depending on the candidate’s scientific interests and expertise, the project can focus on one (or a combination) of the following research lines:
1. Statistical properties of gaseous halos around high-redshift quasars
Statistical analysis of the CGM around quasars at z=5−7, using a large sample of quasars and star-forming galaxies. The study is based on ALMA observations of the [CII] 158μm far-infrared emission line to trace the distribution, kinematics, and extent of the cool gas in the circum-galactic environment.
2. Physical conditions of the cold molecular gas in high-z quasar host galaxies
Detailed investigation of the cold molecular gas phase in luminous quasars from the WISSH sample. The project uses VLA observations of the CO(1-0) transition to constrain gas mass, excitation, and physical conditions. It includes advanced modeling of XDR (X-ray Dominated Regions) and PDR (Photon Dominated Regions) using dedicated radiative transfer codes.
3. Joint ALMA + JWST study of the ISM and CGM in luminous high-z quasars
Integrated analysis of the multi-phase gas content (ISM + CGM) using ALMA observations of [CII], [OI], and CO lines combined with JWST near- and mid-infrared spectroscopy. The goal is to reconstruct gas kinematics, identify inflows and outflows, and build a comprehensive picture of the baryon cycle in the early Universe.
4. High-resolution kinematics of molecular disks in nearby active galaxies
Spatially resolved study (50–100 pc resolution) of CO disks in a statistical sample of local Seyfert galaxies using ALMA data. The project includes dynamical modeling with 3DBarolo (BBAROLO), analysis of gas velocity dispersion (σgasσgas), and the identification of non-circular motions such as bars, inflows, and outflows.
For further information and application details, please contact Chiara Feruglio (
