Personal information

Lorne Nelson

Bishop's University Department of Physics and Astronomy Johnson Building Room 2 2600 College Street Sherbrooke, QC Canada   J1M 1Z7 Phone: 819-822-9600 x2372 Fax: 819-822-9661 Email: lnelson@ubishops.ca Web: http://physics.ubishops.ca/lnelson

Research field: Interacting binary-star systems; white dwarf stars; neutron stars; black holes.

Description of the research project:
The primary focus of Lorne Nelson's research is centered on the theory associated with the structure, formation, and evolution of very-low to intermediate mass stars in close binary systems containing compact stars — white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes. The most important scientific objective is the development of a self-consistent picture of the formation and evolution of interacting binary systems. Most stars reside in "wide" binary systems but some of the most important and exotic phenomena are observed in interacting binary systems. They span the range from black-hole binaries to contact binaries. These systems are rich in physics (e.g., radiative hydrodynamics, thermonuclear runaways, the properties of dense matter) and can be used as a laboratory in which we can test predictions from a diverse group of fields such as general relativity and high energy physics. A better understanding of the properties and evolution of stars gives us unique insights into the age, scale, and structure of the Universe.

Prix et distinctions:

• 2012-09 : Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, Gouvernement du Canada
• 2012-02 : Education Award, Ville de Sherbrooke (Lennoxville)
• 2011-03 : SRC Natural Sciences and Mathematics Teaching Award, Bishop's University
• 2011-01 : Mérite estrien, La Tribune - Radio Canada
• 2002-07 à 2009-06 : Canada Research Chair in Theoretical Astrophysics