KU Leuven’s Division of Quantum Chemistry and Physical Chemistry is offering PhD positions as part of the ERC Consolidator Grant-funded UNBOUND TWO project, supervised by Prof. Thomas Jagau. These positions focus on the development, implementation, and application of advanced quantum-chemical methods to study spectroscopies involving two or more unbound electrons. Research topics include the treatment of singly- and doubly-excited states, the study of organic molecules and transition-metal compounds in both gas phase and solution, and their interactions with ionizing radiation and free electrons. Key processes under investigation are Auger and Coster-Kronig cascades, dissociative recombination, and dissociative electron attachment. The project offers flexibility, allowing research topics to be tailored to the candidate’s expertise and interests. Candidates will have the opportunity to combine theoretical method development, computational modeling, and high-level electronic structure theory in a collaborative, internationally recognized research environment. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in chemistry, physics, or a related field, with strong knowledge of quantum mechanics and linear algebra. Programming skills, preferably in C++, and experience with quantum-chemical calculations (such as coupled-cluster theory) are advantageous. Proficiency in English is required. KU Leuven provides a competitive, tax-exempt PhD fellowship with social security, holiday and end-of-year bonuses, and a bicycle allowance. Additional benefits include a budget for conference participation and consumables, access to training in management, science communication, and teaching via the Arenberg Doctoral School, and up to 20% time for teaching and supervision of master students. The fellowship is for up to 4 years (initial 1-year contract, renewable). The start date is negotiable, preferably before 1 October 2026. To apply, candidates should prepare a brief cover letter explaining their research interests and motivation, a curriculum vitae, transcripts of bachelor and master courses (or current grades if in the final year), a master thesis (or bachelor thesis if in the final year), and the names and contact details of 2–3 academic referees. Applications should be sent to Prof. Thomas Jagau at [email protected] by 1 April 2026. For technical support, contact [email protected]. More information is available on the KU Leuven jobsite . This opportunity is ideal for candidates eager to advance the field of quantum chemistry through innovative research in a supportive and resource-rich academic setting.

The Division of Quantum Chemistry and Physical Chemistry at KU Leuven offers Ph.D. positions in quantum chemistry, focusing on the ERC-funded project UNBOUND TWO (Theory of Nonradiative Decay with Two or More Electrons at Play). Successful candidates will join a vibrant international research environment, working under the supervision of Prof. dr. Thomas Jagau. The project centers on the development, implementation, and application of advanced quantum-chemical methods to interpret spectroscopies involving two or more unbound electrons, requiring a balanced treatment of singly- and doubly-excited states. Research will explore the interaction of organic molecules and transition-metal compounds in gas phase and solution with ionizing radiation and free electrons across a broad energy range. Key processes studied include Auger and Coster-Kronig cascades, dissociative recombination, and dissociative electron attachment. The group is highly international, with four professors and numerous Ph.D. students and postdocs, offering a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere. Applicants should have a master's degree in chemistry or physics (or equivalent), a genuine interest in quantum chemistry and electronic-structure theory, and proficiency in mathematics (especially linear algebra) and quantum mechanics. Good programming skills (preferably C++) are highly desirable, and experience with quantum-chemical calculations, particularly coupled-cluster theory, is advantageous but not required. English proficiency is essential. Projects can be tailored to the candidate's expertise and interests. The position offers a competitive, tax-exempt fellowship with full social security benefits, holiday and end-of-year bonuses, bicycle allowance, and discounted access to cultural and sports facilities. The initial contract is for one year, renewable up to four years after positive evaluation. Additional support includes budgets for conference participation and consumables, as well as training in management, science communication, and teaching through the Arenberg Doctoral School. Up to 20% of work time may be devoted to service duties such as teaching and supervision of master students. The start date is negotiable, preferably before 1 October 2026. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a respectful and socially safe environment. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, transcripts, master thesis, and contact details for 2–3 academic referees. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Thomas Jagau at [email protected]. Apply via the KU Leuven jobsite link provided.

The Division of Quantum Chemistry and Physical Chemistry at KU Leuven, Belgium, invites applications for postdoctoral positions in quantum chemistry. Successful candidates will join the ERC-funded project UNBOUND TWO (Theory of Nonradiative Decay with Two or More Electrons at Play), supervised by Prof. dr. Thomas Jagau. The project focuses on developing advanced quantum chemistry methods to interpret spectroscopies involving two or more unbound electrons, requiring an evenhanded treatment of singly- and doubly-excited states. Using these methods, the research will explore the interaction of organic molecules and transition-metal compounds with ionizing radiation and free electrons across a wide energy range, including processes such as Auger and Coster-Kronig cascades, dissociative recombination, and dissociative electron attachment. Postdoctoral researchers are expected to lead the development, implementation, and application of new quantum-chemical methods. This includes code development for higher-order coupled-cluster methods (CC3, CCSDT, CCSDt), methods for scalar-relativistic and spin-orbit effects, and theoretical modeling of dissociative recombination and electron attachment. The role may also involve guidance of bachelor, master, and Ph.D. students, as well as participation in departmental teaching activities. Applicants should have a genuine interest in quantum chemistry and electronic-structure theory, hold a Ph.D. in theoretical chemistry or theoretical physics (or equivalent), and possess good programming skills (preferably C++). Experience with higher-order coupled-cluster methods, scalar-relativistic and spin-orbit effects, or dissociative recombination and electron attachment is highly desirable. Proficiency in English is required. Projects can be tailored to the expertise and interests of successful candidates. The offer includes a competitive tax-exempt fellowship commensurate with seniority and experience, full social security benefits, holiday and end-of-year bonuses, bicycle allowance, and access to cultural and sports facilities at discounted rates. The initial contract is for one year, renewable once after positive evaluation. Budgets for conference participation and consumables are provided. KU Leuven offers a vibrant international research environment and the possibility to extend the research project through applications for FWO or MSCA fellowships. The preferred start date is before 1 October 2026. To apply, submit a PDF including a cover letter, CV, publication list, Ph.D. certificate, bachelor and master certificates with transcripts, and names/contact details of 2–3 academic referees. Applications are accepted via the KU Leuven jobsite. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Thomas Jagau at [email protected]. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. For accessibility or support questions, assistance is available via the provided email address.