University of Graz is forming a Computational Astrophysics group with emphasis on modelling dynamics of stellar interiors. The group
will be inaugurated in September 2026 and led by Dr. Petri Käpylä. Applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position starting at the inauguration date of the group are invited. The position is part of the ERC Advanced Grant project NeoCon – New Paradigm of Stellar Convection.
The NeoCon project addresses the convective conundrum: the discrepancy between observations of the Sun and results from numerical
simulations. The project explores the ideas that:
* Convection in the Sun and stars is dominated by entropy rain.
* Solar and Stellar convection is strongly affected by magnetic fields.
The goal is to improve the physical understanding of stellar convection and its consequences for large-scale flows and dynamos in the Sun and stars.
Research themes
The PhD project will focus on the numerical study of entropy rain using idealized and global simulations. Research topics can include
but are not limited to:
* Simulations of single and multiple plumes to study the dynamics of entropy rain in isolation.
* Convection simulations where entropy rain is induced by boundary conditions.
* Quantifying the role of entropy rain in energy transport, flow amplitude and morphology, and stratification of convective envelopes
* Implications of entropy rain for generation of large-scale magnetic fields.
Simulations will be carried out using the Pencil Code, a community-driven open source high-order finite-difference code for compressible magnetohydrodynamics.
Candidate profile
Applicants should hold (or soon complete) a Master’s degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field, and have an interest in
computational physics. Experience with programming (Python, Fortran, C/C++) and HPC is highly desirable.
We offer
A competitive PhD salary, access to state-of-the-art computing facilities, close supervision, and a vibrant international research environment with neighboring research groups working on stellar astrophysics and solar and heliospheric physics.
Application Instructions
The applications need to contain a motivation letter, CV with contact details of two references, and a transcript of studies. Review of
applications begins on 30th April 2026 but applications will be considered until the position is filled. Applications need to be sent electronically to the email address: [email protected].
Contact: Dr. Petri Käpylä, [email protected]