Two PhD Positions in Solar Physics at KU Leuven (CmPA)

The Centre for Mathematical Plasma Astrophysics (CmPA) at KU Leuven, Belgium, invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions in Solar Physics. CmPA is a vibrant research group within the Department of Mathematics, comprising five professors and around 60 PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers. The group is internationally recognized for its expertise in numerical modelling of astrophysical plasmas, with a particular emphasis on the solar corona, solar wind, coronal mass ejections, and black-hole accretion discs. CmPA maintains a broad international network and is involved in numerous large-scale research collaborations. Project 1 (Supervisors: Prof. Dr Tom Van Doorsselaere and Prof. Dr Fabio Bacchini) focuses on radiative losses in particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations of the solar corona. The project aims to incorporate spectral line radiation into PIC simulations to better understand how radiative losses influence plasma dynamics during energy-release processes such as turbulence and magnetic reconnection. Project 2 (Supervisor: Prof. Dr Tom Van Doorsselaere) investigates new waveframe variables for analysing wave energy transport in solar plasma simulations. The project will use the recently developed Q-variables formalism to study wave propagation, reflection, and energy transport, with a focus on kink-wave reflection and interactions in the context of the coronal heating problem. Analytical results will be validated through numerical simulations and applied to improve existing MHD models of the solar corona. As a PhD candidate, you will communicate research results through peer-reviewed publications and conferences, complete the doctoral programme at the Arenberg Doctoral School (including professional training), participate in international conferences and research visits, teach mathematics exercise classes, and assist in supervising bachelor’s projects. Eligibility: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in physics, mathematics, astrophysics, or a closely related field with a strong mathematical component by the start of the PhD. Excellent academic performance, a strong interest in solar physics, solid computational modelling and programming skills, strong analytical abilities, and proficiency in English (written and oral) are required. Funding: Both positions are fully funded PhD scholarships for four years, with the possibility of renewal for three additional years after a positive evaluation in the first year. The positions offer a supportive, collaborative, and international research environment, access to state-of-the-art simulation methods, and opportunities for professional development and networking. Application: Submit your application by 2 March 2026, including a cover letter (specifying the PhD position), CV with two referees, and transcripts of all university courses. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in March 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr Tom Van Doorsselaere ([email protected]) or Prof. Dr Fabio Bacchini ([email protected]). KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. The university provides a supportive environment for all researchers.