2022 Laureate Profile: Professor Simon Driver

Professor Simon Driver

Administering Organisation: The University of Western Australia

Fellowship Project Summary

FL220100191 – Unveiling the mass of the Universe: stars, gas, plasma and dark matter

Dark matter cannot be detected with current scientific equipment but is known to make up most of the mass of our universe. This project is an opportunity for major advancements in our understanding of dark matter, and the role it plays in the growth of galaxies and the production of starlight and the impact on the earth. Beyond the potential to be a world leader in addressing one of the most important questions in modern physics (what is dark matter?), this project will also showcase the capability of Australian-built technology installed at the European Southern Observatory in Chile and fast-track the establishment of a new space-telescope data centre in Perth. The national benefit for Australia will be realised through new partnerships with international space agencies, potentially translate into multi-million-dollar contracts for Australian designed and built astronomical equipment, and place Australia at the forefront of dark matter studies worldwide.

Australian Research Council funding: $2,609,122

Find out more information about Professor Simon Driver and their research areas of interest to date by visiting their profile page here: Simon Driver — the UWA Profiles and Research Repository

For further information about this funding scheme, please visit the Australian Laureate Fellowships page. 

Image credit: The University of Western Australia