AdressLund University welcomes applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We regard gender equality and diversity as a strength and an asset.
Job ProfileThe Doctoral student will be employed at the Division of Astrophysics, Department of Physics at the Faculty of Science at Lund University. The Doctoral student will become a member of the galaxy formation group. Research in the division includes galaxy formation, galactic dynamics and evolution, star formation and dynamics, star evolution, stellar spectroscopy and astrometry, planet formation and dynamics, as well as exoplanet atmospheres.
Work dutiesThe formation of galaxies is a very active field in astrophysics. Thanks to telescopes such as JWST and ALMA, we can now observe distant galaxies with increasing precision. Along with spectroscopic and astrometric studies of the Milky Way, where Lund is a world leader, this opens up the potential for a better understanding of how galaxies evolve. To achieve this, observations must be compared with theoretical models. At the division of astrophysics, we use supercomputer simulations to study the physical processes that shape the life of galaxies, from the Big Bang to today.
The Doctoral student will work within research areas focused on computer simulations of galaxy formation and evolution. The work will involve designing and conducting new high-resolution models of galaxy disks to understand in detail how the interstellar medium evolves, as well as how star formation occurs in different galactic environments.
The main duties of Doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).
Entry requirements
Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:
- has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
- has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
- has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.
Specific admission requirements:
To be admitted to the third-cycle programme in Astronomy and Astrophysics the student must have earned credits in first and second-cycle programmes in which physics, mathematics and/or corresponding engineering subjects have been substantial elements. In addition to 60 credits in basic physics, there is a requirement for at least 60 credits in subjects of relevance to Astronomy and Astrophysics, e.g., courses in Astronomy or other physics subjects, or engineering subjects such as space technology and automatic control. The 120 credits must include at least 60 second-cycle credits. The first and second-cycle courses must include a degree project comprising 30 credits.
Equivalent knowledge acquired through corresponding programmes will be assessed individually.
In order to enable interdisciplinary initiatives and important specialisations in certain areas, students with qualifications in subjects other than Physics may be considered for admission.
Finally, the student must be judged to have the potential to complete the programme.
Additional requirements:
- Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
Other assessment criteria
- A background in Astronomy and programming skills are advantageous.
Basis of assessment
Selection to postgraduate studies is based on the expected ability to perform well in the studies. The evaluation of the ability to perform well is based primarily on the results of studies at the basic and advanced levels, in particular:
- Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of the study.
- An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
- Written and oral communication skills
- Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.
Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.
Terms of employmentOnly those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a Doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A Doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.
Instructions on how to applyApplications shall be written in English and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).
The Faculty of Science conducts research and education within Biology, Astronomy, Physics, Geosciences, Chemistry, Mathematics and Environmental Science. The Faculty is organized into eight departments, gathered in the northern campus area. The Faculty has approximately 1500 students, 330 PhD students and 700 employees.
The Department of Physics is one of Lund University's largest departments with approximately 400 employees. The department is shared between the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Engineering. At the department there are seven research divisions and a number of major research centra. The research at the department covers a wide range of modern physics.
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