Jonti Horner

Jonti Horner is a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), affiliated with the School of Mathematics, Physics and Computing and the Centre for Astrophysics. He is a leading researcher in astrobiology, exoplanets, and solar system evolution, with significant contributions to the MINERVA-Australis project and the GALAH survey. He holds a PhD from the University of Oxford and has held postdoctoral positions across the UK, Switzerland, and Australia.

Research Interests:
His work spans:

• Orbital dynamics of solar system small bodies (asteroids, comets)
• Exoplanet detection and characterization
• Planetary habitability and system architecture
• Astrocladistics and dynamical modeling
• Science communication and public outreach

Recent Research Trends:
His latest publications focus on transiting exoplanets discovered via TESS and ground-based follow-up, including mini-Neptunes, hot Jupiters, and super-Earths. He frequently collaborates on large-scale surveys like GALAH to refine stellar parameters for planet host stars, and investigates the role of stellar evolution and system architecture in planetary dynamics and habitability.

Supervision & Collaboration:
He supervises multiple PhD and Master’s students and is involved in international collaborations including MINERVA-Australis, TESS, and CHEOPS. He is a Fellow of the Astronomical Society of Australia and an active member of the Astrobiology Society of Britain.

Science Communication:
Horner is a prolific science writer, contributing regularly to The Conversation, and engages in media interviews, public talks, and educational outreach, including annual meteor shower calendars.