GWINT-2030 · Gravitational Waves, Inspirals, and Novel Tests of gravity in the era of (20)30s

Despite the detection of numerous binary merger events since 2014, current tests of General Relativity (GR) have consistently confirmed its predictions, with no statistically significant deviations observed yet. In light of upcoming advancements in detector technology, the development of new tests for gravity specifically designed to harness the enhanced sensitivity of next-generation detectors constitutes the best path forward at current state-of-art. In this project I identify three crucial areas where improved tests of GR will be instrumental in pushing the current state-of-art. First, I will compute GW emissions from Extreme Mass Ratio Inspiral (EMRI) orbits around ‘stealth’ black holes and crucially explore if LISA like detectors can tell these systems apart from GR while inferring their source properties. This work will additionally investigate if shape Love numbers are important ingredients for parameter estimation of EMRI systems. Then, my second study will refine the phenomenology of current GW-waveform modelling for binary mergers in environments. I intend critical upgrades to the treatment of accretion along with the associated drag force and torque. This task has immense value as a potential mitigation of modelling biases commonly associated with inspirals in environments. Finally, I will calculate the oscillation modes of non-rotating neutron stars (NSs) in Scalar-Tensor (ST) gravity. My unique methodology will involve using both Neural Networks and numerical techniques. I will also check for the existence of universal Relations in ST gravity. My work will be of paramount relevance to gravity theorists, GW phenomenologists and data analysts. It will help me to gain scientific (NS oscillations, Neural Networks, Modified Gravity), teaching and organisational expertise while symbiotically transferring hard and soft skills to my host’s group at bearable risk. My track record shows I have the requisite skills to successfully complete the project.