Sumukha R Bharadwaj
PhD Scholar – Astronomy and Astrophysics
Tracing the invisible threads that connect galaxies
Department of Earth and Space Sciences
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
Advisor: Dr Anand Narayanan
I am a PhD researcher studying the circumgalactic medium (CGM) and intergalactic medium (IGM) using quasar absorption line spectroscopy. My research focuses on understanding galaxy evolution through processes such as gas accretion, outflows, and feedback.
My work involves analysing quasar absorption systems using HST–COS spectroscopy and studying galaxy environments and kinematics using VLT–MUSE integral field spectroscopy to investigate galaxy–absorber connections.
Research Areas
Circumgalactic Medium and Intergalactic Medium
Studying the circumgalactic medium using quasar absorption line spectroscopy to understand galaxy evolution, gas accretion, outflows, and feedback processes in galaxies.
Galaxy–Absorber Connections
Using VLT–MUSE integral field spectroscopy to identify galaxies associated with absorption systems and study galaxy kinematics and environments to determine whether absorbers trace inflows, outflows, or extended circumgalactic gas.
Current Research Projects
Software Tools
Cosmology Calculator
A Flutter-based cosmological calculator implementing the ΛCDM cosmological model.
If you encounter any issues or suggestions, please contact me.
Selected Publications
Curriculum Vitae
Education
PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
Advisor: Dr Anand Narayanan
MSc Physics
St Joseph's College (Autonomous), Bengaluru City University
SGPA: 8.25
BSc Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics
St Joseph's College (Autonomous), Bengaluru City University
SGPA: 8.2
Research Experience
PhD Research – Circumgalactic and Intergalactic Medium
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
Spectroscopic study of the Circumgalactic Medium (CGM) and Intergalactic Medium (IGM) using quasar absorption line systems, combining HST–COS spectroscopy with VLT–MUSE observations to investigate galaxy–absorber connections and the physical and kinematic properties of gas around galaxies, including Ne VIII, O VI, and Mg II absorbers at low redshift.
Dissertation Research Project
Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)
Topic: Transiting Exoplanetary Atmospheres – Spectroscopic Reduction and Observational Techniques
Performed end-to-end spectroscopic reduction of ground-based observations of two hot Jupiter exoplanets (HAT-P1-b and WASP-33b) using IRAF, including bias subtraction, flat-field correction, aperture extraction, and wavelength calibration, followed by transit light curve fitting and MCMC parameter estimation using pylightcurve.
Project Assistant – COSMOS Outreach Program
Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)
Worked as a Project Assistant in the COSMOS outreach program for about six months, participating in astronomy outreach activities and educational programs.
Technical Skills
Outreach & Teaching
Astronomy Outreach and Night Sky Sessions
I participate in astronomy outreach activities where I conduct night sky observation sessions for students and the public using outreach telescopes. These sessions introduce participants to observational astronomy and basic techniques for observing celestial objects such as the Moon, planets, and bright nebulae.
Teaching Assistant – Observational Astronomy
Assist MSc students in learning observational astronomy techniques, including acquiring astronomical images using the departmental telescope and understanding basic observational procedures.
Personal Interests
Outside my academic research, I have a strong passion for acting and music. I have acted in Kannada films and television serials in addition to my work in astronomy. Some of my acting work includes the following productions.
Contact
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
