Large NWO grant for research into origin of the universe

The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) has awarded an Open Competition Science-M grant to Dr. Daan Meerburg of the Van Swinderen institute for Particle Physics and Gravity (UG) and Dr. Christoph Weniger (UvA). They receive an M2 grant of EUR 755,000 for research on the origin of the universe.

M grants are for innovative, high-quality research with scientific urgency. An M-2 grant is awarded to projects led by two researchers.

Smart algorithms look at origins of universe

Searching for the answer to how the universe came to be, Meerburg and Weniger will use highly sophisticated computer algorithms in their research. By simulating images of the radio sky (as measured today), the researchers will determine the conditions in the early universe. From these simulated images, AI algorithms pioneered by the team will be able to rebuild or reconstruct the universe as it would have appeared billions of years ago. Carefully analysing those AI generated images would provide breakthrough insights in the origins of the universe. Results of this research will have a direct impact on radio experiments that are currently ongoing and in which the Netherlands is closely involved.

NWO Open Competition Domain Science-M

M-grants are intended for realizing curiosity-driven, fundamental research of high quality and / or scientific urgency. The grant offers researchers the possibility to elaborate creative and risky ideas and to realise scientific innovations that can form the basis for the research themes of the future.