Investigating Gamma-Ray Burst Progenitors and Central Engines

The aim of this thesis is to study Gamma-Ray Burst (GRB) progenitors and central engines, I begin by examining unexpected plateaus in GRB light curves and place constraints on the central engine, that are consistent with a proto-magnetar. Next I compare these to the normal plateaus seen in the light curve and expand my investigation to include flares. Finally I investigate whether some giant flares could actually be a GRB if the GRB in those light curves could be a progenitor.