These positions are based in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, under the supervision of Prof. Pablo Marchant, and will form part of the cutting-edge research initiative funded by the ERC Starting Grant: Star-Grasp.

About the Research

The Star-Grasp project focuses on understanding the formation processes of gravitational wave sources by combining theoretical modeling of stellar populations with observations of intermediate evolutionary stages. As a PhD researcher, you will:

• Conduct computer simulations of single and binary star evolution, from formation to compact object coalescence.
• Develop innovative methods for efficient stellar evolution modeling.
• Apply new techniques to compare theoretical predictions with large observational datasets.

The work promises to advance our understanding of gravitational wave progenitors and contribute to the burgeoning field of gravitational wave astrophysics.

What We Offer

• Employment Type: Full-time doctoral fellow position.
• Contract Duration: Initial 12-month contract, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation.
• Start Date: September 1, 2025 (negotiable between August 1 and November 1, 2025).
• Salary: Competitive, based on family status and seniority, tax-free under Ghent University’s doctoral fellowship regulations.

Additional Benefits

• 36 annual leave days (full-time basis), supplemented by fixed bridge days.
• Access to training and education programs for professional development.
• Bicycle allowances, eco vouchers, and other perks promoting sustainability.
• Integration into Ghent University’s supportive, research-driven environment with world-class facilities.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the position, you should:

• Hold (or be close to completing) a Master’s degree in Astronomy or Physics (or equivalent) by the start of the position.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English, both written and spoken.

Desired (but not mandatory) Skills

• Background in theoretical astrophysics or gravitational wave astrophysics.
• Experience in computer simulations and programming.
• Familiarity with numerical methods for stellar astrophysics or related fields.

Responsibilities

As a PhD researcher, you will:

• Perform detailed simulations to study stellar evolution and gravitational wave progenitors.
• Contribute to the development of new computational methods to improve efficiency in stellar modeling.
• Collaborate with team members on data analysis and interpretation.
• Present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit the following documents by email. 

1. Curriculum Vitae detailing your educational background, research experience, and publications (if any).
2. A motivation letter (maximum 1 page) explaining your interest in this project and its alignment with your academic goals.
3. Transcript of academic records from your Bachelor’s and Master’s studies, including grades.
4. Contact information for two referees who will provide anonymous recommendation letters (referees will only be contacted after initial shortlisting).

Deadline

• Preferred submission date: January 31, 2025.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until suitable candidates are selected.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online interviews in February 2025, with final decisions expected in early March.

Email Subject Line: "Application for PhD positions of the Star-Grasp project"