Tag: PhD position

GRAPPA invites applications for one or more PhD positions to work at the interface of general relativity, gravitational wave astrophysics, and dark matter phenomenology within the ERC Advanced Grant “De Tenebris,” led by Prof. G. Bertone.

The PhD candidate will develop and apply theoretical and computational models for compact binaries in astrophysical/dark matter environments and contribute to the interpretation of current and future gravitational wave observations (LISA and next-generation ground-based detectors). The position is embedded in a collaborative team with strong ties to the international gravitational wave and dark matter communities.

We are looking for candidates who: – will have completed an MSc in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field by the start date; – have a solid grounding in general relativity and/or gravitational wave astrophysics; – have experience in scientific programming (e.g., Python or C++); – can communicate clearly in English and enjoy working in a collaborative research environment. It is a plus—not a requirement—if you are familiar with cosmological or N-body simulations, gravitational wave data analysis, or dark matter phenomenology.

GRAPPA is the center of excellence in gravitation, astroparticle physics, and cosmology at the University of Amsterdam, located at Amsterdam Science Park, with a lively seminar culture and close connections to the LIGO/Virgo/KAGRA, LISA, and Einstein Telescope collaborations.

The University of Amsterdam is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive community and welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

How to apply

Applications should be submitted via AcademicJobsOnline. Please include:

• a cover letter;
• your CV, including a list of publications (if any);
• a brief statement of research interests;
• two letters of recommendation.

The expected start date is between Spring and Fall 2027. Application Deadline: 1 December 2026.

Please find here details.

The Center of Gravity at the Niels Bohr Institute (NBI) invites expressions of interest for a PhD fellowship in gravitational-wave theory and solutions to the relativistic 2-body problem under the supervision of Maarten van de Meent. The preferred starting date is Fall 2027. To receive full consideration, interested candidates should upload the material requested below before December 15th, 2026. The search will remain open until the optimal candidates are found.

Successful candidates will join the GWSKy project, funded by an ERC Synergy Grant. We are particularly interested in hiring creative and highly motivated candidates who can work collaboratively in a vibrant, welcoming, and synergistic group. The ERC-funded project called “Making sense of the unexpected in the gravitational-wave sky (GWSky)” is led by PIs Maarten van de Meent (NBI, Copenhagen, Denmark), Enrico Barausse (SISSA, Trieste, Italy), Zvi Bern (University of California, Los Angeles, US), and Alessandra Buonanno (Albert Einstein Institute, Potsdam). Given the synergistic aspect of the GWSky project, we anticipate the possibility of PhD students having a co-supervisor at one of the other nodes, and for them having the opportunity to have extended visits there.

The aim of the GWSky project is to use gravitational-wave measurements by existing and future observatories on the Earth and in space as precision laboratories for fundamental physics, cosmology, and astrophysics. This includes the current LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA detectors, as well as the future ground-based observatories Cosmic Explorer and Einstein Telescope, and the space-based detector LISA. By leveraging the PIs and their team’s expertise, the GWSky project aims to develop a groundbreaking framework capable of solving the highly nonlinear equations of Einstein’s General theory of Relativity, creating waveform models with unprecedented accuracy, and translating these results into practical tools for interpreting the data.

More information can be found on the website: https://gwsky.org/

Possible topics include: development of gravitational self-force methods at second order in the mass-ratio; incorporation of environmental and/or beyond GR effects in the self-force formalism; and utilization of self-force data to enhance effective-one-body waveform models.

The Center of Gravity (CoG) is a center for new ideas about the foundations of physics. We bring together cutting-edge research in observations of black holes and in the formal theory of relativistic and quantum aspects of gravity, completing the visions of Bohr and Einstein for the gravitational interaction. Our research endeavor spans from data analysis to theoretical disciplines within astrophysics and high-energy physics, and we aim to drive gravitational-wave physics to an exciting future. We have our physical home in the beautiful and legendary building at Blegdamsvej 17, established by Niels Bohr. This is the place where quantum theory was born and where many exciting new developments in gravity are now taking place. Today, the Niels Bohr Institute carries an important legacy in physics and is one of the leading institutes in theoretical and experimental physics. At the Center of Gravity, we hope to carry on the pioneering spirit that has defined our predecessors at the Niels Bohr Institute through trailblazing and fundamental research. More information can be found on the website: https://the-center-of-gravity.com/ The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes expressions of interest from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background. PhD students at the University of Copenhagen receive a competitive salary (including pension) and funds for travel and computing. Generous parental leave, state-subsidized childcare, vacation, and full medical care are provided to employees in Denmark.

For any inquiries, kindly send an email to Maarten.Meent(at)nbi.ku.dk, with email subject “PhD Fellowship in Gravitational Self-Force”

Please find here full details and how to apply.

The Gravity Exploration Institute at Cardiff University has an open PhD position in gravitational-wave and fundamental physics instrumentation. The post will initially be focused on developing of a new optical readout scheme for laser interferometry, that uses photon counting instead of continuous-wave photodetection. The work will be developed in context with our world-leading table-top experiment, and is being funded by an ERC advanced grant.

Please talk to Prof. Hartmut Grote if you have further questions. Closing date for the application is 30 October 2026.

Please find here details.

The Center of Gravity at the Niels Bohr Institute invites expressions of interest for PhD Fellowships in Gravitational Physics for a fixed period of three years. The preferred starting date is April-September 2027. Interested individuals are encouraged to upload all material before December 1, 2026, by submitting a 2-page CV, transcripts, and a one-page letter of motivation. In addition, we are requesting (at least) two letters of recommendation. The search will remain open until completed.

We seek international outstanding individuals eager to join Center of Gravity, a center bringing together cutting-edge research on formal and phenomenological aspects of black holes and gravitational waves, as well as related fundamental research areas.

This call is seeking specifically outstanding candidates for an ambitious research program on quantum aspects of black holes and spacetime via string theory and holography. The research program is an integral part of the Center of Gravity, a new DNRF Center of Excellence initiative which is composed of the young and vibrant team consisting of Vitor Cardoso, Emil Bjerrum-Bohr, Jose Ezquiaga, Troels Harmark, Niels Obers, Marta Orselli, Alessia Platania, Johan Samsing, Maarten van de Meent, Ziqi Yan, focused on addressing the physics of black holes, quantum aspects of spacetime via string theory and holography, the problem of motion in General Relativity using advanced quantum field scattering and gravitational self-force techniques, and gravitational-wave physics. An ample travel budget for the Center is available.

Brief interviews will be conducted with team members after an initial shortlist is formed. This search is part of a vigorous expansion at the Niels Bohr Institute into the field of Gravitational Physics, bringing together scientists from various areas of theoretical physics and astrophysics to address some of the most pressing questions related to gravity. The Center of Gravity is hosted by the Niels Bohr Institute. It functions as a primary center for fundamental research, including gravitational physics, theoretical and computational astrophysics, cosmology, and high-energy physics. The Center hosts several international programs, including visitor programs, workshops, and Ph.D. schools. The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes all qualified individuals regardless of personal background.

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The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) for Astronomy & Astrophysics is a joint structured Ph.D. program of the Max Planck Institute for Radioastronomy (MPIfR, Bonn) and the Universities of Bonn and Cologne. At one of the most vibrant astronomy centers in Europe, several PhD positions are available for talented students nearing the end of their Master's degree (or equivalent) in physics or astrophysics. The teaching language is English. The application deadline is October 30th, 2026.

Program Details:

Appointments are for 3 years, starting at any time in 2027.

Starting annual gross salary: ~40617 Euro; with attractive benefits.

The IMPRS for A&A has 70+ Ph.D. students from 20+ countries.

Supervision by world-leading experts at the MPIfR and the Universities of Bonn and Cologne.

Research on a wide range of cutting-edge topics in observational and theoretical astrophysics.

Access to world-class observing facilities at a wide range of wavelengths. Career development workshops, advanced lecture courses, soft skill seminars. Funding for travel and research.

Remuneration is based on the German collective agreement for the public sector (TVöD-Bund or TVL), level 13, 65%, which includes comprehensive health care and other social benefits such as contributions to a pension fund, accident insurance, sick leave and 30 days of vacation per year. In addition, our school has special agreements with daycare providers and counselors, and offers German classes.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing diversity in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals with disabilities. The society also seeks to increase female representation in underrepresented areas and strongly encourages women to apply.

For more information visit: https://www.mpifr-bonn.mpg.de/en/imprs

Link to Online Application: https://imprs.mpifr-bonn.mpg.de

Publication Start Date: 2026 Sep 15

Application Deadline: 2026 Oct 30

Inquiries: IMPRS A&A Office, Email: imprs(at)mpifr-bonn.mpg.de

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The International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) on Astrophysics at Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich invites applications for its international PhD program.

Located in the vibrant Munich–Garching science campus in southern Germany, the IMPRS offers a unique research environment through the close collaboration of four world-renowned institutions: MPI for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE), University Observatory Munich, LMU (USM, MPI for Astrophysics (MPA), European Southern Observatory (ESO).

The IMPRS provides a highly competitive doctoral program that combines advanced lecture courses, seminars, and an independent research project leading to a PhD degree under the supervision of leading scientists at one of the participating institutions. The language of instruction is English.

The students have access to some of the world’s most powerful ground- and space-based observatories, state-of-the-art scientific instrumentation, and high-performance computing facilities for advanced numerical simulations and theoretical research. Applications are welcome from outstanding students of all nationalities. Application deadline: November 1st 2026.

Successful applicants receive either a fully funded employment contract or a fellowship providing financial support sufficient to cover living expenses in Munich. We also offer comprehensive assistance with visa procedures, relocation, accommodation, and all administrative matters to ensure a smooth start.

Please find here details and how to apply.

This vacancy is for a four-year PhD position focusing on the development of the optical readout of the CHiPS sensor. Your research will centre on a homodyne quadrature interferometric readout, with the aim of combining high sensitivity with the robustness and stability required for continuous operation. You will investigate and develop the interferometric sensing architecture through modelling, experimental development and characterisation. The readout will be designed to operate in both open-loop mode, using fringe counting, and closed-loop mode. Developing the closed-loop system will involve close collaboration with the control-design PhD researcher at TU Delft, while achieving a robust and compact sensor will require close interaction with the optomechanics PhD researcher. The deadline for applications is Sunday 4 October 2026 at 23:59 CEST.

The position

Many state-of-the-art sensors demonstrate exceptional performance in the laboratory, but achieving that performance can require careful manual optimisation, frequent recalibration or precise realignment. Such an approach is not sufficient for applications that require sensors to operate continuously and autonomously in demanding environments.

The CHiPS (Compact High-Precision Sensors) project aims to address this challenge by combining advanced sensing and control techniques into compact, robust and extremely high-performance inertial sensors. The goal is to move beyond laboratory demonstrations and develop sensors that can operate reliably for extended periods without manual intervention. The resulting technology will target applications ranging from semiconductor manufacturing to next-generation gravitational-wave detectors.

The CHiPS project is being carried out by a team of three PhD researchers: one based in the gravitational-wave research group at Nikhef (this vacancy) and two based in the Precision and Microsystems Engineering (PME) department at Delft University of Technology. The three PhD projects address complementary aspects of the sensor:

• optical readout and interferometric sensing at Nikhef;
• optomechanical design at TU Delft; and
• sensing, control and feedback at TU Delft.

The project is funded through the Dutch National Growth Fund NXTGEN programme of NWO and is carried out in collaboration with industrial and academic partners, including ASML.

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The Theory Division at the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ), Warsaw, invites applications for a PhD student position in gravity and cosmology.

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with experience in scientific computing (Python, C++, and/or Mathematica), a strong background in quantum mechanics, and prior training in general relativity and cosmology through graduate-level coursework or equivalent research experience. Familiarity with quantum gravity will be considered an advantage.

The successful candidate will work on quantum cosmology, contributing to the development of an extension of the standard cosmological framework based on the multiverse-state formalism. The project combines analytical and numerical approaches. The PhD student will be responsible for developing numerical implementations of the formalism, designing and testing computational algorithms, performing numerical simulations, deriving analytical approximations, and investigating potential observational signatures. The student will also contribute to perturbative calculations and the interpretation of the obtained results.

The position is funded by the National Science Centre, Poland, under grant DEC-2025/59/B/ST2/00497. The successful candidate will be enrolled in the NCBJ Doctoral School. Funding includes a doctoral scholarship for up to four years and resources necessary to conduct the research project, including support for conference travel.

The expected starting date is 1 October 2026 (or shortly thereafter).

The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026.

Applications should be submitted through the NCBJ Doctoral School admission process:
https://gradschool.ncbj.gov.pl/admission-requirements/

Applicants should submit:

• a curriculum vitae,
• academic transcripts,
• a statement of research interests describing their motivation and relevant background,
• a completed application form.

Application materials should be sent to grad@ncbj.gov.pl.

For further information, please visit the NCBJ Doctoral School website (https://gradschool.ncbj.gov.pl).

Please find here details.