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PhD Fellowship in Theoretical and Gravitational Wave Astrophysics University of Copenhagen in Denmark
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Theoretical Physics
Funding
Three-year PhD fellowship with competitive salary including pension; access to travel funding and HPC resources.
Deadline
Dec 15, 2026
Country
Denmark
University
University of Copenhagen
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About this position
The Niels Bohr International Academy at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, invites expressions of interest for a three-year PhD fellowship in theoretical and gravitational wave astrophysics. The PhD fellow will join the Theoretical Astrophysics Group led by Martin Pessah and contribute to an expanding research program supported by an ERC Advanced Grant and the Carlsberg Foundation’s Semper Ardens Accomplish Grant.
The project brings together astrophysical fluid dynamics and gravitational wave astrophysics to study the environments that lead to compact binary mergers, spanning stellar-mass compact objects through to supermassive black holes. A central scientific focus is the formation, evolution, and observable signatures of black-hole binaries in turbulent, magnetized disks around supermassive black holes.
The fellowship sits within NBIA’s broad and internationally connected research environment in fundamental theoretical physics. The institute brings together researchers working across astrophysics, gravitational physics, particle astrophysics, quantum sciences, biophysics, and soft matter physics, and offers seminars, visiting scientists, workshops, and PhD schools. The wider Copenhagen research community also provides collaboration opportunities through groups and centers active in black-hole dynamics, gravitational-wave modeling, and multimessenger astrophysics.
The fellow will receive research training and mentoring, participate in PhD courses and scientific communication, and have opportunities to join international workshops and PhD schools. Access to the Tycho high-performance computing facility is included, supporting computational work with more than 10,000 CPU cores and GPU resources.
The appointment is expected to begin in fall 2027, with flexibility on the starting date.
Funding details
Three-year PhD fellowship with competitive salary including pension; access to travel funding and HPC resources.
What's required
Applicants should hold a MSc in astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field by the starting date of the appointment. A strong background in physics, astrophysics, or a related field and an interest in theoretical research are sought. Relevant expertise in astrophysical fluid dynamics, magnetohydrodynamics, accretion theory, compact-object dynamics, gravitational wave astrophysics, or computational astrophysics is welcome.
How to apply
Submit a cover letter, CV, publication list, and a research statement via Academic Jobs Online. Send scientific inquiries to Martin Pessah by email if needed.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.