Université libre de Bruxelles
1 week ago
PhD Position: Beta Decay and Nuclear Structure for Astrophysical Applications Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Astrophysics
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 1, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
Université libre de Bruxelles
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About this position
PhD opportunity at the Institut d’Astronomie et d’Astrophysique (IAA), Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium. This project focuses on beta decay and nuclear structure for astrophysical applications, with a particular emphasis on understanding how radioactive decay processes shape nucleosynthesis in stars and explosive astrophysical environments.
The successful candidate will join the Brussels group working on nuclear data for astrophysics. The broader research context includes the origin and abundance of elements in the Universe, the production of heavy elements, and the role of neutron-rich nuclei in the r-process and other nucleosynthesis pathways. A key scientific goal is to extend the group’s large-scale nuclear structure models, including the BSkG series, from static nuclear properties to beta decay observables such as half-lives and strength functions.
The project is computational and theory-oriented. The student will develop theoretical frameworks and numerical tools to calculate beta decay properties of nuclei relevant to astrophysical processes. Another important aspect of the work is contributing to BRUSLIB, the nuclear astrophysics database hosted by ULB, by incorporating beta decay data to support the wider astrophysics community.
The position is embedded in a dynamic research environment at IAA/ULB, with regular group meetings, open scientific discussion, and collaboration opportunities. The project is suited to a candidate with strong programming ability, an interest in numerical simulations and algorithms, and a willingness to work independently within an international team.
Eligibility highlights: applicants must hold a master’s degree in physics. Good spoken and written English is required. Experience with Fortran, C/C++, or Python is desirable, along with strong organizational, scientific writing, and presentation skills.
Application process: candidates should email their CV to Wouter Ryssens at [email protected] and ask two referees to send recommendation letters directly. Applications are reviewed immediately, and the preferred start date is as soon as possible. The deadline listed is 1 November 2026 at 12:00 (Europe/Brussels).
Institution and location: Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
Funding details
Available
What's required
The candidate must hold a master degree in physics. Excellent programming skills and a marked interest in numerical simulations and algorithms are required; knowledge of Fortran, C/C++ and Python is desirable. The candidate should have good organizational skills, a taste for interdisciplinary research, excellent scientific writing and presenting skills, and be able to work independently. A sufficient level of spoken and written English and the ability to work in a team are required.
How to apply
Send your CV by email to [email protected]. Also request two referees to send their recommendation letters directly to the same email address. Applications are reviewed starting immediately, so early submission is encouraged.
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