PhD position in -resolution spectroscopy of intermediate- and -mass stars contex

Overview

Organisation/Company KU Leuven Research Field Astronomy » Astrophysics Position:
First Stage Researcher (R1) – PhD position in astronomy/astrophysics Final date to receive applications: 22 Feb 2026 (UTC) Country:
Belgium

Contract:

Temporary, Full-time Starting Date: 1 Sep 2026

We invite candidates to apply for a PhD position as part of the scientific exploitation of the Mercator Observatory, La Palma, Spain. The project will leverage large observing programmes with the high-resolution HERMES spectrograph, combined with space-based data from ongoing and near-future space missions. The end goal is to address shortcomings in our understanding of stellar structure and evolution of binary systems hosting intermediate- and high-mass stars.

The project has two parts: (1) synergy with upcoming Gaia DR4 and ground-based follow-up of targets of interest (e.g., dormant binaries with compact objects, stripped stars, and other key intermediate- and high-mass star evolutionary stages); (2) preparation, commissioning and early science exploitation of the CubeSPEC technology demonstrator mission for long spectroscopic time series of beta-Cepheid pulsators.

Eligibility and requirements include a MSc degree in physics, astrophysics or mathematics (or equivalent diploma) dated no later than one month before starting. Proficiency in English is required. Expertise in astrophysics is an asset but not required; expertise in optical/infrared interferometry and/or massive stars is an asset but not required. The successful candidate will register at the Arenberg Doctoral School of KU Leuven and pursue a doctoral programme with training in management, science communication and teaching.

As part of the doctoral requirements, the candidate will spend up to 20% of time on service duties (teaching and supervision) in Bachelor (Dutch) or Master (English) programmes and perform Mercator observing runs of ten nights for IoA long-term monitoring programmes.

The selected PhD candidate will be offered a 1-year bursary contract, renewable for up to 4 years after a positive evaluation. The tax-free bursary amount equals the net salary of a research assistant (salary scale 43) and is calculated upon joining KU Leuven. A comprehensive benefits package includes: holiday bonus, end-of-year bonus, holiday allowance, free hospital insurance, free public transport when commuting, bicycle allowance, staff discount scheme, and access to sports and cultural facilities at special rates.

The foreseen starting date is between September 1 and October 1, 2026, but negotiable.

Application package should contain: (i) a curriculum vitae with publication list; include two references (references letters are not required at this stage); (ii) a statement of interest (max one page); (iii) a summary of research experience (max 2 pages); (iv) a list of all master courses with their study points and individual scores and yearly averages.

The short-listed applicants will be invited for an interview (live or via video-call) in the week of March
9. Further information may be obtained by contacting Prof. Hugues Sana (, ).

The successful PhD applicant will register at the Arenberg Doctoral School of KU Leuven and follow a doctoral programme with training in management, science communication, and teaching. As part of the doctoral requirements, the candidate will spend up to 20% of their time on service duties (teaching and supervision) in Bachelor (Dutch) or Master (English) programmes and perform Mercator observing runs of ten nights for the IoA long-term monitoring programmes.

Starting date: between September 1 and October 1, 2026 (negotiable).

PhD applicants must hold a MSc degree in physics, astrophysics or mathematics or an equivalent diploma, dated no later than one month before start. Expertise in astrophysics, optical/infrared interferometry and/or massive stars is an asset but not required. Proficiency in English is required.

The application package should contain: (i) a curriculum vitae with publication list; last page to include names and emails of two references (reference letters not required at this stage); (ii) a statement of interest (max one page); (iii) a summary of research experience (max 2 pages); (iv) a list of all master courses with study points, individual scores, and yearly averages.

The short-listed applicants will be invited for an interview (live or via video-call) in the week of March 9. For further information, contact Prof. Hugues Sana at  or .