Research groups

Our extensive research programme ranges from the study of the origin of the Universe in the Big Bang to the discovery of planets orbiting other stars.

We have over 150 research staff and postgraduate students working on projects that cover observations, theory and technical development. Many of these projects are international in scope. 

Our research staff work within groups focusing on

• Cosmology
• Pulsars, Exoplanets and Transients
• Extragalactic Astrophysics
• Galactic Astrophysics
• Solar Physics

In addition, our Interferometry Centre of Excellence brings together expertise in data handling and user support for the e-MERLIN and ALMA facilities, and developments towards the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).

The SKA Group within Jodrell Bank Centre leads several key projects developing hardware and software for largest telescope array ever built.

Cosmology is the study of the Universe as a whole rather than individual objects.

Research in this area focuses on understanding a wide range of astrophysical phenomena using the latest observational techniques, modelling, and theoretical tools.

We study the life cycles of stars and the interstellar clouds from which they form.

Supporting research into novel and improved techniques for extracting the maximum amount of information from radio interferometric data.

The study of time variable sources such as pulsars, planets, novae and fast transients.

A multi-purpose radio telescope that will play a major role in answering key questions in modern astrophysics and cosmology.

A central theme of our research is modelling the nature and effects of magnetic reconnection in the solar atmosphere.