We are offering a 4-year PhD position in space physics, with a strong focus on numerical simulations of plasma processes using state-of-the-art codes on high-performance computing systems. The successful candidate will carry out their research within the Department of Mathematics and contribute to teaching through a limited assignment, primarily involving the supervision of practice sessions in the Science & Technology programs at KU Leuven Kulak.
Project: The selected candidate will join the group of Prof. Nicolas Wijsen. Over the course of four years, they will conduct numerical simulations in space physics, with a focus on modeling solar energetic particles (SEP) produced during large-scale solar eruptions. The PhD project aims to improve our understanding of SEP acceleration and transport, particularly in the complex magnetic environment of the solar corona. Using advanced numerical models and observational data from various spacecraft missions, the candidate will investigate how SEPs are generated and how they propagate through space. The candidate will work in an interdisciplinary environment, with access to high-performance computing facilities and in-house expertise in numerical plasma modeling.
Profile: You have a master’s degree (or will obtain your degree this academic year) in physics, astrophysics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related subject.
* You have a strong interest in computational physics, space physics or solar physics.
* Experience with programming (e.g. Python, C++) and numerical simulations is a plus.
* You are willing to take on teaching tasks (practice sessions) in Dutch for physics and/or mathematics subjects in the bachelor’s programs in Sciences and Engineering Sciences at Campus Kulak Kortrijk.
The successful PhD applicant will have to register at, and comply with, the regulations of the KU Leuven’s Arenberg Doctoral School before final acceptance. Good knowledge of the English language is a requirement to be approved by the doctoral school. The successful PhD applicant will follow a doctoral program including personal training in management, science communication, and teaching. As part of the doctoral requirements, the student will have to take up a teaching task of on average 4 hours per week in one of the Bachelor programs (in Dutch).
Offer: The selected PhD student will be offered a 1-year contract, renewable up to a total duration of 4 years. The salary will be commensurate to the standard scale for PhD students in Belgium. The foreseen starting date is October 1st 2025 but can be negotiated.
Interested?
Apply directly via the KU Leuven jobsite: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60460025
The application will require:
– A curriculum vitae;
– A list of all master courses with corresponding ECTS and individual scores obtained;
– A motivation letter
– Contact details of two references
For more information, please contact Prof. dr. Nicolas Wijsen, mail: [email protected]