ICTS

We are living in an exciting era of great discoveries in the field of gravitational physics and cosmology. The detection of gravitational waves by LIGO in 2016 has led to an enormous interest in various aspects of the physics of compact objects. The recent observation of the black hole shadow by the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) also initiated diverse research programs. The primary emphasis of these works is twice folded; first, to test the theory of general relativity at the strong-field regime, and second to find possible signatures of new physics.

The second Indian Association for General Relativity and Gravitation (IAGRG) school on Gravitation and Cosmology aims to train young researchers in these emerging areas of Gravitational physics. The program is mostly intended for graduate students working (or starting to work) on gravitational physics, cosmology, and related areas. In this school, the emphasis would be on cutting-edge topics on the physics of compact objects, both theoretical and observational. We have chosen four contemporary topics to be taught by the leading experts. These topics are:

• Wald's covariant phase space formalism (Sudipta Sarkar, IIT Gandhinagar) 
• Neutron star perturbation theory (Nils Andersson, University of Southampton)
• Black holes in General Relativity and beyond (Thomas Sotiriou, University of Nottingham)
• Dynamical horizons and their application (Badri Krishnan, Radboud University)

The school will be for two weeks. There will be two 1.5 hours of lectures and two tutorials per day and a total of 10 lectures and 10 tutorial sessions weekly. We also plan to organize some evening discussion sessions.

Eligibility Criteria: 

The program is intended mainly for graduate students (Ph.D.) working (or starting to work) on gravitational physics, cosmology, and related areas. An introductory course on general relativity will be a prerequisite for the school.  Senior Ph.D. students will be given preference. We also welcome applications from young postdoctoral researchers.

The applicant should write a brief description (within 150 words) of their research experience and how this school will benefit their future research work. 

Accommodation will be provided for outstation participants at our on-campus guest house.

ICTS is committed to building an environment that is inclusive, non-discriminatory, and welcoming of diverse individuals. We especially encourage the participation of women and other under-represented groups.