Cosmology in the Era of Multi-Messenger Astrophysics with Gravitational Waves

Abstract: This talk presents an overview of my research on cosmology with a focus on recent developments towards incorporating gravitational-wave standard sirens as distance indicators to map the expansion history of the universe. My most well-known work is the DESGW project, a search and discovery program for the electromagnetic signatures of standard sirens, which has helped to inaugurate the sub-field of gravitational-wave multi-messenger astrophysics by co-discovering the binary neutron star merger GW170817. We also pursue cosmological measurements for dark sirens, events without counterparts, using galaxy catalogs from surveys such as the Dark Energy Survey. Rapid growth prospects in this area are fueled by the increased sensitivity of gravitational wave detectors and the discovery capability of cosmic survey instruments. Future prospects for this research program will likely include precision cosmological measurements to enable a breakthrough in our understanding of cosmology.