Postdoctoral Position in Kinetic Shock Physics and Solar Energetic Particles KU Leuven in Belgium

The Science & Technology Group at KU Leuven Campus Kulak in Kortrijk offers a vibrant academic environment with active research groups in mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering. The Space Plasma Research Lab specializes in space physics and advanced computational modelling of plasma processes. This postdoctoral position focuses on kinetic shock physics and solar energetic particles, with an emphasis on particle-in-cell simulations of plasma processes using state-of-the-art codes and high-performance computing systems.

The successful candidate will join the Department of Mathematics and conduct research at KU Leuven Campus Kulak. The main research objective is to investigate particle acceleration at CME-driven shocks using kinetic plasma simulations, aiming to improve physics-based models of solar energetic particle events. The work involves particle-in-cell simulations of collisionless shocks under heliospheric conditions, considering shock geometry, upstream turbulence, and large-scale magnetic-field structures. Candidates may use in-house codes such as iPiC3D or ECsim, or other suitable kinetic plasma codes. KU Leuven provides access to local Tier-2 high-performance computing facilities and Belgian Tier-1 supercomputing resources.

Responsibilities include performing and analyzing kinetic simulations of particle acceleration in collisionless shocks, investigating dependencies on upstream plasma conditions, turbulence, and magnetic-field geometry, comparing simulation results with spacecraft observations, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and presenting at international conferences.

Applicants must hold a PhD in physics, applied mathematics, engineering, computational science, or a closely related field. A strong interest in plasma physics is required, preferably with expertise in kinetic descriptions of space or astrophysical plasmas. Basic knowledge of solar physics, heliophysics, and space-weather processes is expected. Experience with numerical modelling and parallel computing facilities is essential. The position is intended for junior postdoctoral researchers within three years of obtaining their PhD. Desirable qualifications include experience with kinetic plasma simulations (especially particle-in-cell methods), spacecraft observations, solar energetic particles, collisionless shocks, coronal mass ejections, or heliospheric modelling.

The offer includes a full-time one-year postdoctoral contract, renewable for a second year subject to satisfactory performance, with a competitive salary in accordance with KU Leuven regulations. Project funding covers a maximum period of two years, with possible extension depending on performance and funding availability. The selected candidate is encouraged to propose and pursue research directions aligned with their scientific interests within the project scope. KU Leuven values initiative and supports the development of new research lines.

Applications must be submitted through the KU Leuven application portal and should include a curriculum vitae with publication list, a motivation letter (maximum one page), a statement of research interests or proposal (maximum two pages), and contact details of two referees. Reference letters are not required at this stage and will only be requested from shortlisted candidates. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Nicolas Wijsen at [email protected].

KU Leuven is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and equal opportunity. For questions about accessibility or support, assistance is available via the provided email address.