This project develops a framework for refining stellar models of red clump (core helium-burning) stars — a regime where current models are generally not trusted. The work incorporates empirically derived, metallicity-dependent mass-loss prescriptions that have only recently become available, and uses population-level constraints from large spectroscopic surveys to tune internal mixing processes.
What you will do
- Develop and calibrate stellar evolutionary models for red clump stars using MESA
- Incorporate empirically constrained mass-loss prescriptions
- Validate models against open clusters and binary systems containing red clump stars
- Perform boutique-level modelling of a gold-standard sample of ~100 stars from Kepler
- Derive transferable calibration prescriptions for population-scale seismic mass and age estimates
Skills you will develop
Stellar evolution modelling (MESA), asteroseismology, population-level statistical analysis, model calibration.
Expected outcomes
A set of at least 100 gold-standard red clump benchmark stars, and transferable correction factors deployable to ~8,000 red clump stars observed by TESS.
BEACON aims to establish an empirically calibrated framework linking stellar oscillation properties to independently measured stellar masses, radii, and ages across post-solar evolutionary phases. By anchoring survey-scale seismic measurements to benchmark stars with dynamical masses and interferometric radii, the project will enable precise, model-independent stellar ages to be derived for evolved stars throughout the Milky Way.
If you want to know more, please get in touch via email.