An increasing body of evidence suggests a deep connection between galaxy evolution and the growth of the supermassive black holes (SMBHs) at their centres. Understanding the conditions and environments that trigger accretion events onto SMBHs is crucial for refining our theories of galaxy formation. In this talk, I will present new insights into the role of the small-scale environment (within 1 Mpc) in the activation of SMBHs. Central to this analysis is a novel semi-empirical model of active galactic nuclei (AGN) and galaxies, based on the latest X-ray AGN population data. Using a forward-modeling approach, I will compare the model's predictions with observations of the fraction and radial distribution of X-ray-selected AGN in massive galaxy clusters, extending to a redshift of z~1.25. These results will be discussed in the context of physical mechanisms operating in dense environments that influence SMBH accretion.

Short bio of Dr Ivan: I completed my Bachelor's degree in Physics at the University of Salamanca, followed by a Master's in Astrophysics at the University of Granada. For my PhD, I was an Early Stage Researcher in the Marie Curie-funded Bid4Best project, part of the EU’s Horizon2020 program. My research was conducted at the National Observatory of Athens and the University of Southampton, under the supervision of Antonis Georgakakis and Francesco Shankar. I focused on understanding the effects of the environment on triggering Active Galactic Nuclei using a semi-empirical model. I successfully defended my PhD thesis in August and am currently seeking a postdoctoral position.