We are seeking a talented and highly motivated PhD student to work in the field of transient astrophysics with a special focus on large transient surveys in the era of big data astronomy. You will be involved in the observations and modeling of extreme astrophysical phenomena, such as supernova explosions, the tidal disruptions of stars around supermassive black holes, and the mergers of neutron stars. You will become part and play an active role in large international collaborations, and you will engage in searches for transient phenomena in large data streams by developing novel methods. You will contribute to the better physical understanding of these phenomena and their cosmological implications.
The position is with Giorgos Leloudas, in the research group of compact objects and transient phenomena, in the section of Astrophysics and Atmospheric Physics at DTU Space (the National Space Institute at the Technical University of Denmark). We study all kinds of astrophysical transients with a particular interest on exotic and rare phenomena. We are part of various international collaborations and transient surveys, including BlackGEM, the Vera Rubin LSST, ENGRAVE and the future LISA. In addition, we have access to and obtain data from the ESO facilities and the Nordic Optical Telescope.
Responsibilities and qualifications
Candidates should have (or should be about to obtain) a master's degree in physics, astronomy or engineering. Applicants with previous experience in observational astrophysics, strong programming skills and knowledge relating to data reduction and analysis are especially encouraged to apply. Flexibility and self-motivation are desired skills at DTU Space, as well as a natural interest in collaboration and personal responsibility.
You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education
.
Assessment
The assessment will be based on the grades (translated into the Danish grading system), the CV, cover letter and the references.
We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.
Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union. The period of employment is 3 years.
The position is available immediately, and the start date is as soon as possible, but this is negotiable. The position is a full-time position.
You can read more about career paths at DTU here http://www.dtu.dk/english/about/job-and-career/working-at-dtu/career-paths.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from senior scientist Giorgos
Leloudas, DTU Space, https://www.space.dtu.dk/english/
, email: giorgos@space.dtu.dk
, https://www.dtu.dk/english/person/giorgos-leloudas?id=26459&entity=profile
You can read more about DTU Space at www.space.dtu.dk
If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark . Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar ” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU.
Application procedure
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 14 May 2025 (23:59 Danish time)
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Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file . The file must include:
You may apply prior to obtaining your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.
DTU Space is the leading institution of public space activities in Denmark. The mission of the Institute is to conduct research, development, public sector consultancy, education and innovation at the highest international level within the following areas: Space Technology & Instrumentation, Earth Observation & Geoscience and Space- & Astrophysics.
In the Astrophysics and Atmospheric Division, current focus areas cover large-scale structure of the universe, physics of compact objects and transient phenomena, exoplanets, upper atmosphere physics and cosmo-climatology, as well as development of instrumentation, in particular high-energy instrumentation, i.e. X- and gamma-ray detectors and optics. The division is currently active in operation of instruments on and data analysis from several satellites. The division also runs four instrumentation laboratories.
Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.