Michael Murphy

Professor Michael Murphy is an observational astrophysicist at Swinburne University of Technology, specifically within the Centre for Astrophysics and Supercomputing. He holds the rank of Professor in the School of Science, Computing and Emerging Technologies. His research focuses on cosmology, quasar spectra analysis, and measuring fundamental constants in the early universe.

• Education and Positions: Previously a research fellow at the University of Cambridge's Institute of Astronomy (2003–2005), and held PPARC Advanced Fellowship (2005–2007) and ARC QEII Fellowship (2008–2012).

Research interests include probing the universe’s evolution through quasar absorption lines, with a focus on variations in the fine-structure constant and cosmic dipole patterns. His work has led to significant findings, including the 2012 Eureka Prize-winning research on fundamental constants.

Key collaborations include work with UNSW researchers John Webb and Victor Flambaum, and contributions to projects like the 'astrocomb' technology for precision spectroscopy.