Mark Sullivan

Professor Mark Sullivan is a faculty member at the University of Southampton, serving as Associate Dean-Research. He holds a professorial position in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, focusing on astrophysics and cosmology. His research interests include supernovae, dark energy, galaxy evolution, and applications of data science to astrophysics. He leads major projects funded by the European Research Council (ERC) and Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC), such as the Rubin Observatory's Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) and the STFC Centre for Doctoral Training in Data Intensive Science (DISCnet).

His work bridges theoretical and observational astrophysics, with contributions to understanding cosmic acceleration and stellar evolution. Sullivan has coordinated international initiatives, including the LSST and ESO/4MOST spectrographic projects. He actively mentors PhD students in these areas and has supervised research through grants like the Royal Society's 'Dark Energy Now and in the Future' and ERC-funded projects.

He is affiliated with the Southampton Theory Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre and the Institute for Life Sciences. Sullivan’s research also applies data science techniques to time-domain astronomy, enhancing early detection of phenomena like supernovae and melanoma (via the 'Mole Gazer' project).

Notable grants include STFC funding for LSST preparations and ERC support for transient astronomy and medical intervention synergies. His work has been recognized through multiple competitive awards and collaborations with global institutions.