Scientific Rationale

The decisive role of massive black holes in galaxy evolution is implied through scaling relations with galaxy properties and observations of ubiquitous nuclear outflows across a wide redshift range. In simulations, accretion onto black holes is a key ingredient in matching observed galaxy mass functions. Recently, the surprisingly high abundance of AGN at z>4 revealed through JWST observations has sparked renewed interest in massive black hole seeding and growth during the first billion years from both observational and theoretical sides. 

The conference aims at bringing together researchers studying massive black holes across and beyond the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as theorists and simulators to discuss recent advances in the research of massive black hole growth, evolution, demographics, and impact across cosmic time. 

We will focus on the following key themes:

1. Observational indicators of massive black holes across cosmic time 

2. Observational constraints on black hole masses through a variety of techniques and across wavelengths (including stellar dynamics, reverberation mapping, single-epoch virial relations, scaling relations, and gravitational waves)

3. Black hole demographics as a function of redshift through simulations

4. Constraints on massive black hole formation (including seeding models) and growth pathways through theory, and in combination with observations

5. Impact of black holes on galaxy evolution evidenced through feedback and scaling relations in observations and simulations 

Important Dates

January - Abstract submission opening 

February 2025 - Abstract submission deadline

8th - 12th  September 2025 - Conference in Cambridge

Confirmed Speakers

To be announced 

Key Scientific Questions

Local Organising Committee