William Alston

Dr. William Alston is an active researcher at the University of Hertfordshire, affiliated with the School of Physics, Engineering & Computer Science and the Department of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics. He contributes to the Centre for Astrophysics Research (CAR) and the Centre of Data Innovation Research, focusing on high-energy astrophysics and data-driven methodologies.

Research Focus: His work centers on dynamical processes in extreme cosmic environments, including:

• Physics of Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) and supermassive black holes
• X-ray timing analysis (e.g., quasi-periodic oscillations, reverberation mapping)
• Accretion flow dynamics around compact objects (black holes, neutron stars)
• Application of machine learning to astronomical data analysis

He employs multi-wavelength observations and computational techniques like Gaussian processes to model complex phenomena such as X-ray time lags and light curve variability.

Collaborations: Alston engages in cross-disciplinary projects through the Centre for Astrophysics Research and Centre of Data Innovation Research, tackling challenges in galactic transients, compact object populations, and high-density plasma environments.