Up to 30% off — ends 2 Aug
ONLY00h00m00s
Up to 30% off — ends 2 Aug
ONLY00h00m00s
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
4 months ago
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2 PhD Positions in Plasma Space Propulsion (ERC ROCINANTE Project) Universidad Carlos III de Madrid in Spain
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Aerospace Engineering
Funding
Full funding availableDeadline
May 31, 2026
Country
Spain
University
Universidad Carlos III de Madrid
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About this position
The Plasmas and Space Propulsion Team at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions as part of the ERC-Consolidator Grant project ROCINANTE. This 5-year project aims to unravel and control the non-linearly oscillating structures and turbulence in electrodeless plasma thrusters for in-space propulsion, paving the way for highly efficient propulsion devices and new research directions in active control of space plasma thrusters.
PhD candidates will join a dynamic, international research group in the Department of Aerospace Engineering. The two positions are:
- ROCINANTE-D1: Focused on the development and instrumentation of a large plasma source, with experimental characterization and analysis of plasma fluctuations.
- ROCINANTE-D2: Dedicated to developing an advanced Particle-In-Cell simulation framework in Julia, applying it to numerically analyze plasma fluctuations.
Frequent collaboration between the two PhD students will enable direct comparison of experimental and numerical results, contributing to the project's ambitious goals. The positions offer up to 4-year contracts (renewed yearly), productivity bonuses, advanced PhD-level training, opportunities for research internships abroad, and travel to international conferences. The working environment is flexible and supportive, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and professional development.
Eligibility: Applicants must hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) with a total of 300 ECTS credits (BSc + MSc), preferably in Aerospace Engineering or Plasma Physics, though candidates from other disciplines are welcome. A strong academic record, critical and creative thinking, and proficiency in English are required. For D1, laboratory/design experience is highly desirable; for D2, numerical experience is preferred. Teamwork, communication skills, and international experience are assets.
Application Process: Applications should be sent by email to [email protected], with the subject 'ROCINANTE-Dx' (x=1 or 2). Required documents: motivation letter (max. 1 page), CV, contact information for up to two references, and a sample of your best work (e.g., MSc thesis), all in PDF format. The deadline is May 31, 2026, but positions may be filled earlier if suitable candidates are found. Contracts are expected to start in October 2026, with flexibility for earlier or later start dates. Applications from women and minorities are especially encouraged.
For more information, see the detailed position description or visit the Aerospace Engineering Department website.
Funding details
Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.
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