Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoctoral researcher in theoretical modeling of supernovae

Through this opening we are looking for a motivated researcher to join the stellar astrophysics group of Prof. Pablo Marchant, within the context of the ERC starting grant project Star-Grasp. Project will be carried out in close collaboration with Prof. Takashi Moriya from the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan. The Star-Grasp project aims to constrain the physics involved in the formation of gravitational wave sources through the study of intermediate evolutionary stages that can be constrained through electromagnetic observations. The candidate will be responsible for the computation of state-of-the-art models of pulsational pair-instability supernovae making use of a novel stellar evolution code being developed in Ghent University. Research will include an important component of code development, in order to produce multi-color light curves of supernovae in 1D simulations that account for the physics of the stellar core (nucleosynthesis and convection), which are critical for the modeling of pair-instability. Results of this research will be placed in context with the observed mass spectrum of black holes in gravitational wave sources, as well as the possible identification of (pulsational) pair-instability supernovae in ongoing transient surveys.

ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY

Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

YOUR TASKS

• At least 80% of your assignment will be spent on academic research.

• Development of methods and simulations that include radiative transfer hydrodynamics in 1D stellar evolution.

• Possible (co-)supervision of MsC and PhD students.

• Supporting the educational efforts of the department through teaching assignment duties.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• You hold a thesis-based doctorate (obtained max. 6 years ago. This term of 6 years is determined by the date written on the above-mentioned required diploma), preferably on astrophysics or physics. If your doctorate has not been completed yet, it is expected that you are in possession of a PhD degree by the start date of the position.

• Experience in one or more of the following areas will be considered strong assets in the application:

  • Theoretical stellar astrophysics

  • Radiative transfer in stellar atmospheres

  • Theoretical modeling of supernovae.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer you a contract of indefinite duration with a maximum term of 3 years.

• Your contract will start on 1/09/2026 at the earliest.

• Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale PD1. Click here for more information about our salary scales. If applicable, contract will be based on a tax-free postdoctoral fellowship.

• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.

INTERESTED?

Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.

Your application must include the following documents:

• In the field ‘CV’: your CV and a transcript of your academic record (merged into one pdf file).

• In the field ‘Cover letter’: your application letter in pdf format.

• In the field ‘Diploma’: a transcript of the required degree (if already in your possession). If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages if available.

• In the field “other documents”:

  • A document containing the contact information for up to three people that can write a reference letter, including their full names and affiliations. They will be contacted immediately after the application deadline. Do not attach reference letters directly.

  • A 3 page research statement.

Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.

As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Pablo Marchant (pablo.marchant@ugent.be). Important: do NOT send your application by email, but apply online.

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