Two PhD fellowships in Astrophysics and Planetary Science Full-time

PhD Projects in Astrochemistry of Star and Planet Formation

The Astrophysics and Planetary Science Section at the Niels Bohr Institute invites applicants for two PhD fellowships in astrochemistry of star and planet formation. The projects are announced as part of the Section's involvement in Center for Interstellar Catalysis, which is financed by the Danish National Research Foundation.

The expected start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The PhD projects focus on the origin of chemical complexity in star- and planet-forming regions, building on data from large observing programs utilising the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). The overarching scientific question is to what degree the chemistry of complex organic molecules depends on the conditions of the natal environment of the young stars and their subsequent evolution. Through the projects, we aim to understand what role, if any, the chemical complexity plays in the emergence of planetary system.

Project 1

will the primarily focus on analysis of data from the ALMA Large Program, Complex Organic Molecules in Protostars with ALMA Spectral Surveys (COMPASS). The PhD candidate will use these ALMA data to identify complex organic species in the warm regions close to young stars, with the goal of accurately characterising the molecular composition of gas at the stage of planet formation.

Project 2

will primarily focus on observations of interstellar ices using the James Webb Space Telescope. The PhD candidate will measure the concentrations of such ices across star-forming clouds and relate them to the physical structures of the clouds, as constrained by large scale gas-phase maps. In this way, the project will reveal the initial conditions for protostellar chemistry.

We anticipate that the two PhD students will work closely together, exploiting synergies between the two projects as well as with other ongoing efforts within our group on numerical and simulations and radiative transfer calculations of star and planet formation.

The projects are carried under the umbrella of Center for Interstellar Catalysis in collaboration with groups at Aarhus University and Leiden University (the Netherlands). Through these collaborations the PhD students will have ample opportunities to interact with researchers addressing similar questions from complementary perspectives, including laboratory experiments and theoretical chemical calculations.

We are seeking candidates with a background in physics, particularly astrophysics. Experience in astronomical data analysis, astrochemistry, radiative transfer, and/or numerical modeling will be considered an advantage.

The position will be hosted in the Young Stars and Planets Group of the Astrophysics and Planetary Science Section at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen. The group conducts research on star and planet formation, protoplanetary disks, and astrochemistry, with a strong focus on the observational characterization of the physical and chemical conditions in planet-forming environments. Group members combine observations from major international facilities, including JWST and the ALMA, with theoretical and numerical modeling to understand the physical and chemical origins of stars and planets.

The research environment is highly collaborative, international, and welcoming of new ideas. By promoting active engagement and the exchange of diverse perspectives, the research group aims to foster a dynamic setting in which innovative approaches can develop. This inclusive culture strengthens the quality of the research while empowering team members to pursue novel directions and contribute meaningfully to the projects' goals.

Principal supervisor is Professor Jes Kristian Jørgensen, Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, jeskj@nbi.ku.dk and +45 3532 4186.

The PhD programme will be conducted as a three year full-time study within the framework of the regular PhD programme (5+3 scheme), requiring an education equivalent to a relevant Danish master's degree.

To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master's degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project.

Employment as PhD fellow is full time and for maximum 3 years.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.

Complete and pass the MSc education in accordance with the curriculum of the MSc programme (ONLY when you are attending the integrated MSc and PhD programme)

Carry through an independent research project under supervision

Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE

Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad

Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities

Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals

Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project

We are looking for the following qualifications:

• Professional qualifications relevant to the PhD project
• Relevant publications
• Relevant work experience
• Other relevant professional activities
• Curious mind-set with a strong interest in star and planet formation, astrochemistry, astronomical data analysis
• Good language skills

Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically.

Please include:

1. Motivated letter of application describing your interest in the PhD project and how your academic background relate to the project topic.
2. Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
3. Original diplomas for Bachelor or Master and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
4. Publication list (if possible)
5. Reference letters (if available)

Application deadline: The deadline for applications is Wednesday 27 May 2026, 23:59 GMT +2.

We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.

A number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified whether you will be passed for assessment.

The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above-mentioned research area, techniques, skills and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is qualified and, if so, for which of the two models. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment.

Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in week 22.

For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor.

General information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE is available at the PhD School's website.

The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the surrounding community and invites all regardless of personal background to apply for the position.