Group and Group Codex

I lead the Inhomogeneous Cosmology group at the University of Southern Denmark. The other group members are listed below.

Group Members

PhD Students

Alexander Oestreicher Alexander's research focuses on the large-scale structure of the Universe, combining analytical models and numerical simulations to explore the growth and dynamics of cosmic structures. He is particularly interested in the role of relativistic effects and understanding how the structures in the Universe modify our interpretation of observations compared to idealized homogeneous cosmologies. He has also investigated how modified theories of gravity influence the formation and evolution of structures on cosmological scales. More recently, his work has increasingly focused on real-time cosmology, exploring how the temporal evolution of cosmological observables can provide new insights into the dynamics of the Universe and open novel observational windows for fundamental physics. See his papers here and his code repository here.

Annamalai P. Shanmugaraj Annamalai's main interests lie in gravity, numerical relativity, and scientific computing. As a PhD student in my group, his research focuses on beyond geometric effects in gravity, particularly high-fidelity simulations of light and gravitational wave propagation through curved spacetimes that model astrophysical environments, including dark matter structures. These simulations are crucial for current and next generation gravitational wave detectors to probe astrophysical structures like dark matter via wave-optics signatures imprinted on signals as they traverse complex gravitational fields. Annamalai also builds and maintains numerical tools that help physicists run large scale numerical relativity simulations in High Performance Computing (HPC) environments. See his papers here and his code repository here.

MSc Students

• Jonas Broe Bendtsen

• Lutfun Nesa Salma

BSc Students

• Laurits Tværmose Nielsen

• Emma Gedsø Heuck Jørgensen

Our group is shaped not only by the people in it, but also by the principles we share. To support a productive, respectful, and inclusive research environment, we follow a common set of guidelines outlined below in our Group Codex — our shared principles for collaboration and scientific discussion.

1. Purpose

Our research group is committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous environment where everyone can contribute fully. Our group codex exists to support productive scientific discussion, mutual respect, and a positive working atmosphere for all members of the group.

2. Core Values

• Respect for people, ideas, and differences
• Open scientific debate conducted professionally
• Curiosity, humility, and willingness to learn
• Shared responsibility for the group atmosphere

3. Expected Behaviors

All group members are expected to:

• Treat colleagues with respect, regardless of background, seniority, nationality, culture, or identity
• Critique ideas, results, and methods rather than individuals
• Allow others to finish speaking and make space for all voices in discussions
• Disagree professionally and constructively
• Be mindful of language and generalizations when discussing countries, cultures, or groups
• Assume good intentions while remaining open to feedback about the impact of one’s words or behavior

4. Behaviors to Avoid

The following behaviors can undermine a healthy research environment and should be avoided:

• Interrupting or talking over others
• Condescending, dismissive, or sarcastic language
• Broad negative generalizations about countries, cultures, or groups
• Presenting opinions as facts outside one’s area of expertise
• Personal attacks or comments directed at individuals rather than ideas
• Creating an atmosphere where others feel hesitant to speak or contribute

5. Self-Reflection

We encourage everyone — including the group leader — to regularly reflect on their own behavior and ask:

• What did I do today to help create a positive and productive atmosphere?
• Did I listen actively and allow others to finish speaking?
• Did I disagree respectfully and focus on ideas rather than people?
• Did I make assumptions or generalizations about someone’s background, culture, or country?
• If someone felt hurt or uncomfortable because of something I said, would I be open to hearing that?

6. Addressing Concerns

If issues arise, they should ideally be addressed early and respectfully.

• Group members are encouraged to speak directly with one another when appropriate
• The group leader is available to facilitate conversations or address concerns confidentially

The goal is always learning, improvement, and maintaining a constructive research environment — not assigning blame.

Living Document

This codex is intended as a living document and may be revised based on feedback and experience.