Prof Ian Howarth

Research summary

My postgraduate studies were under the supervision of the late Professor Sir Robert Wilson.  My PhD topic was UV spectroscopy of X-ray binaries, which led to my continuing interest in galactic astrophysics in general, and quantitative spectroscopy of luminous stars in particular.

Given how aggressively web pages date, it's dangerous to say what I'm "currently" involved in; suffice it to say that I've contributed to a number of research-council committees, and have played a major part in the scientific direction of the Royal Astronomical Society as Senior Secretary and as Vice-President.  My real motivation, however, comes from addressing the scientific puzzles that are the bread and butter business of a journeyman research astronomer.   Recent work has included investigations into magnetic fields in O stars, and studies of very rapidly rotating stars, both for their intrinsic interest and as hosts of transiting exoplanets.   As a retiree, I spend more and more time to less and less effect studying these topics.

Education

University College London

Doctorate, Doctor of Philosophy | 1982

University College London

First Degree, Bachelor of Science | 1977

Publications

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