2 x PhD Scholarships: Stellar Explosions and Asteroseismology in Binary Systems KU Leuven in Belgium

KU Leuven’s Institute of Astronomy is offering two fully-funded PhD scholarships in the field of stellar explosions and asteroseismology in binary systems, under the supervision of Prof. dr. Eva Laplace. These positions are part of the new StarHearts research team, supported by an FWO Odysseus grant, and will be embedded in a vibrant, international research environment with access to state-of-the-art computational and observational facilities.

The research projects focus on understanding the life cycles and end states of massive stars in binary systems, with particular emphasis on the formation and properties of compact remnants such as black holes, neutron stars, and white dwarfs. The discovery of gravitational waves has opened new avenues for studying these exotic objects, and the projects aim to bridge theoretical models with cutting-edge observations.

PhD Project 1 will investigate the explosion and implosion signatures of binary stars, using analytical and numerical methods to predict observable properties of supernovae and other transients. The work will involve modeling light curves and spectra, exploring the outcomes of binary evolution, and developing theoretical frameworks to interpret observations from facilities like the Vera Rubin Observatory.

PhD Project 2 will focus on characterizing the asteroseismic signals ("heartbeats") of stars that have undergone binary evolution. Using numerical tools such as MESA and GYRE, the candidate will model pulsation characteristics and compare them with data from TESS, KEPLER, and the upcoming PLATO mission, aiming to constrain the physical properties of gravitational-wave progenitors.

The Institute of Astronomy at KU Leuven is a center of excellence, hosting around 80 scientists and operating the 1.2m Mercator telescope at La Palma. The successful candidates will join the Arenberg Doctoral School, participate in a comprehensive doctoral training program, and contribute to teaching and observing duties as part of their development.

Eligibility: Applicants must have a MSc in astrophysics, physics, mathematics, or equivalent, and demonstrate proficiency in English. Strong programming skills, experience with relevant numerical codes, and a background in stellar astrophysics or computational physics are advantageous. The positions are open to candidates from diverse backgrounds, and KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive research environment.

Funding: The scholarships provide a tax-free bursary equivalent to a research assistant’s net salary (salary scale 43), renewable for up to 4 years, with a comprehensive benefits package including bonuses, insurance, childcare, and transport allowances.

Application: Submit a CV (with referees), statement of interest, research experience summary, and academic transcripts via the KU Leuven jobsite by 5 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed between late January and mid-February. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Eva Laplace at [email protected].