Topics that you might want to explore in more detail for papers.
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The following list is highly incomplete, but maybe something will
catch your eye. We can also come up with a topic together. 
Please come see me about your paper topic sometime before mid-February
(3-4 weeks before due date).

The galaxy luminosity function (theoretical origin, division by type, evolution).
Galaxy environmental trends (morphology-density, color-density relations and evolution).
New results from SAURON (e.g., interpretation of kinematically-decoupled cores).
Lin-Shu spiral density-wave theory.
The Toomre Q parameter and disk stability/instability.
Evolution in the Fundamental Plane, significance for galaxy evolution.
Semi-analytic models of galaxy formation.
A comparison of recent numerical simulations for galaxy formation.
Feedback from star formation and AGN.
Various high-redshift galaxy selection techniques.
The galaxy correlation function at different redshifts.
The nature of dust extinction/extinction laws in different types of galaxies.
The origin of dust in galaxies.
Cool gas in elliptical galaxies.
The CO-H2 conversion factor.
Substructure in the Milky Way stellar halo.
The nature of the Milky Way bulge.
The formation of the Milky Way.
Evidence for variations/constancy of stellar IMF in different environments.
Understanding abundance patterns in elliptical (or any type of) galaxies.
Stellar vs. ISM abundance indicators, strengths and limitations.
Mass-metallicity relation and its connection to SF feedback.
The Schmidt-Kennicutt Law for star-formation, and its significance.
Nature and/or Evolution of the Black Hole M-sigma relation.
A comparison of different stellar population synthesis indicators.
A census of stellar mass / baryonic content of galaxies at different redshifts. 
The satellite problem in the local group.
An exploration of multi-wavelength star-formation indicators.
The Universe at z~1.
The history of star-formation in the universe.
Lya as a probe of galaxy formation.
Evolution of AGN activity in the universe. Different AGN selection techniques.
Spitzer's view of XX.
Galaxy morphology as a function of redshift.
Thermodynamics of cluster gas (cooling/heating).