DoctorKarelle Siellez

Dr Karelle Siellez’s research lies at the intersection of gravitational-wave astrophysics, high-energy astrophysics and time-domain astronomy. She studies explosive and rapidly evolving cosmic events, including short and long gamma-ray bursts, kilonovae, supernovae, neutron-star mergers and other optical transients. Her work uses multi-messenger approaches that combine gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation to understand the physical origin, environment, population and evolution of these events.

A major focus of her research is the rapid detection and follow-up of faint and fast transients. This includes subthreshold gamma-ray burst searches, optical and near-infrared follow-up of gravitational-wave candidates, kilonova classification, and the development of observing strategies for southern-hemisphere facilities. Her work connects theoretical predictions, observational strategy, telescope coordination, data analysis and international collaboration.

Dr Siellez has contributed to major international efforts in multi-messenger astronomy, including the search for gamma-ray bursts associated with gravitational-wave triggers and the interpretation of GW170817/GRB 170817A. Her publication record includes more than 130 refereed publications in astrophysics, with high citation impact through both collaborative landmark discoveries and shorter-author contributions. Her research continues to focus on improving the detection and interpretation of faint electromagnetic counterparts to compact-object mergers.

At UTAS, Dr Siellez is building a future-facing program in robotic telescope follow-up of cosmic explosions. This includes using Tasmanian telescope infrastructure, developing rapid-response observing and reduction pipelines, strengthening links with international missions such as SVOM, and contributing to Rubin Observatory/LSST transient science. She is particularly interested in how southern observatories can contribute to the next decade of time-domain and multi-messenger astrophysics.

Her broader scientific vision connects transient astrophysics with environmental monitoring, dark-sky preservation and interdisciplinary research. She is developing the Future Skies concept, which brings together optical astronomy, radio astronomy, satellite impacts, light pollution, environmental indicators, Indigenous sky knowledge and public policy. Through this work, she aims to position Tasmania’s skies as a scientific, cultural and environmental strength.