PhD Position in Solar Energetic Particle Modeling and Space Weather at KU Leuven
KU Leuven
The Science & Technology Group at KU Leuven Campus Kulak in Kortrijk offers education in a broad range of bachelor’s programmes in the sciences, including mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering. With several active research groups on campus, Kulak provides a multidisciplinary and stimulating environment for staff, researchers, and students. The successful candidate will become part of the Space Plasma Research Lab, where research focuses on space physics and advanced computational modelling of plasma processes.
Project: Solar energetic particles are a key component of hazardous space weather and provide a powerful diagnostic of particle acceleration and transport in the solar corona and heliosphere. This PhD project aims to improve our understanding of how SEPs are accelerated during major solar eruptions and how they propagate through the complex magnetic environment near the Sun.
The candidate will perform numerical simulations of SEP acceleration and transport, with emphasis on the role of coronal magnetic structure during eruptive events. The project will combine advanced modelling tools with observational constraints from spacecraft missions. The work will be carried out in an interdisciplinary setting with access to substantial in-house expertise in space-plasma modelling and high-performance computing.
Candidate profile: Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, an M.Sc. degree in physics, astrophysics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related field. Experience in one or more of the following areas is an advantage, but not required: plasma physics or space physics, astrophysics or heliophysics, numerical methods and scientific computing, programming and data analysis. A strong interest in computational research and a good command of English are required.
Offer: The position is offered as a 1-year contract, renewable up to a total duration of 4 years, subject to satisfactory progress. The preferred starting date is 1 October 2026, although some flexibility is possible.
Full job description and application details: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60638099
Applications should be submitted via the KU Leuven job site: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60638099
The application should include:
– a curriculum vitae
– a list of university courses, including ECTS credits and grades
– a motivation letter (max 1 page)
– contact details for two references