Markus Kortelainen

The University of Jyväskylä’s Department of Physics invites applications for up to three Doctoral Researcher positions in nuclear astrophysics, starting in September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. These fixed-term positions (3.5 years) are designed to support the completion of a doctoral thesis and are part of the newly established Centre of Excellence in Neutron-Star Physics, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The Centre of Excellence status ensures long-term funding, strong connections to Finnish and international research groups, and resources for research visits and conference travel. Successful candidates will join a vibrant research group focusing on nuclear structure and dense matter relevant to astrophysical phenomena, with research tasks tailored to the candidate’s interests in experimental, theoretical, or astrophysical modelling work. The department’s research spans materials physics, nuclear physics, and particle physics, with nuclear physics concentrating on nuclear astrophysics, nuclear structure, and applied accelerator-based research. Experimental research is conducted in the Accelerator Laboratory, the multidisciplinary Nanoscience Center, and in international facilities such as CERN and FAIR. Applicants must have, or be about to obtain, a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics or a closely related field. Essential qualifications include a strong background in nuclear physics, quantum mechanics, or experimental techniques, and an interest in computational methods and programming. Preferred skills include familiarity with nuclear structure theory, astrophysical modeling, or experimental nuclear physics techniques, and experience with numerical modeling and programming (Python, C++, Fortran). Good communication skills and motivation for collaborative research are expected. A good command of English is required, and a six-month trial period applies. Candidates must have permission for post-graduate studies at the University of Jyväskylä; after selection, they must apply for postgraduate study rights through the Faculty of Mathematics and Sciences. The University of Jyväskylä offers excellent working conditions, prioritizing the wellbeing of its international and multidisciplinary community. Finland provides a high standard of living, free education (including in English), affordable childcare, generous family benefits, comprehensive healthcare, and a strong work–life balance. Employees enjoy four to six weeks of annual holiday. Jyväskylä, located in central Finland, offers easy access to nature, a vibrant cultural scene, and a lively student population. Salaries are based on the Finnish University Salary System, with a starting salary of approximately 2500 €/month (gross income) and a holiday bonus. Salary progression is in accordance with the Collective Agreement of Finnish Education Employers. The Centre of Excellence status also supports research visits and conference travel. To apply, submit your application via the recruitment system by May 25, 2026. Required documents (in English and PDF format) include a CV (following the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity template), a motivation/cover letter (max 2 pages), degree certificate, and contact details for at least two references. For further information, contact Prof. Anu Kankainen ([email protected]) and Prof. Markus Kortelainen ([email protected]). The University of Jyväskylä is committed to fairness, transparency, and equality in selection decisions, and adheres to the principles of HR Excellence in Research, the European Charter for Researchers, and the DORA Declaration. The application process is professional and international, with open communication throughout. The department values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.

The University of Jyväskylä's Department of Physics invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Nuclear Physics, with a focus on nuclear astrophysics. This fixed-term position, starting in April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, is for two years with the possibility of extension. The role is part of the newly established Center of Excellence in Neutron-Star Physics, funded by the Research Council of Finland, offering long-term funding, strong national and international collaborations, and resources for research visits and conference travel. The successful candidate will engage in advanced research on the properties of dense nuclear matter and their implications for astrophysical phenomena such as neutron stars and nucleosynthesis. The position is ideal for candidates with a Ph.D. in theoretical nuclear physics, astrophysics, or a closely related field, and a strong background in theoretical nuclear many-body methods. Proficiency in computational methods and programming (C++, Python, Fortran) is essential, as is the ability to work effectively in an international research team. Preferred qualifications include experience with nuclear density functional theory or effective interactions, knowledge of high-performance computing, and familiarity with neutron star physics and astrophysical simulations. The Department of Physics at the University of Jyväskylä is a vibrant research environment, hosting three Finnish Centres of Excellence in Quark Matter, Quantum Materials, and Neutron-Star Physics. The department's research covers materials physics, nuclear physics, and particle physics, with experimental work conducted in the Accelerator Laboratory, the Nanoscience Center, and international facilities such as CERN and FAIR. The university offers a supportive and inclusive community, excellent campus facilities, and a high standard of living in Jyväskylä, a city known for its educational and cultural opportunities. The salary for this position is approximately 3600-4800 €/month (gross), depending on qualifications and experience, with additional support for relocation and settling-in. The university promotes equality, diversity, and the principles of HR Excellence in Research. The application deadline is February 4, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Markus Kortelainen ([email protected]). To apply, candidates must submit an online application including a CV, motivation/cover letter, publication list, degree certificate, and contact details for at least two references. An up-to-date and public ORCID profile is required. Applications sent via email will not be considered.

The University of Jyväskylä's Department of Physics invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in theoretical nuclear structure physics, with a focus on nuclear density functional theory (DFT). This two-year, fixed-term position is part of the NUANZ project, funded by the Research Council of Finland, and is expected to start in April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research group associated with the Center of Excellence in Neutron-Star Physics, benefiting from long-term funding, strong national and international collaborations, and resources for research visits and conference travel. The research will center on the development and application of advanced nuclear energy density functionals to improve the description of nuclei near the N=Z line. The group collaborates closely with Finnish Centre of Excellence hubs in Helsinki, Jyväskylä, and Turku, as well as international partners. The Department of Physics at Jyväskylä is renowned for its research in nuclear physics, materials physics, and particle physics, and hosts several Centers of Excellence funded by the Research Council of Finland. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in theoretical nuclear physics or a closely related field, completed before the starting date. Essential qualifications include a strong background in nuclear structure theory and many-body physics, experience with computational methods and programming (C++, Python, Fortran), and excellent communication skills. Preferred skills include familiarity with density functional theory, beyond-mean-field techniques, and high-performance computing. The ability to work in a collaborative, international research environment is crucial. The salary for this position is determined by the university salary system for teaching and research staff (demand level 5–6), with a gross monthly salary of approximately 3600–4800 €, depending on qualifications and experience. The university offers a settling-in allowance to support relocation to Jyväskylä, as well as resources for research travel. The city of Jyväskylä provides a high standard of living, excellent educational and healthcare services, and a vibrant cultural and student scene. To apply, candidates must submit their application via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by February 4, 2026. Applications must include a CV, motivation/cover letter, publication list, degree certificate, and contact details for at least two references, all in English and PDF format. An up-to-date ORCID profile with public publications is required. For further information, contact Prof. Markus Kortelainen ([email protected]). The University of Jyväskylä is committed to equality, diversity, and the principles of HR Excellence in Research. The selection process is transparent and professional, with open communication throughout. The Department of Physics offers excellent research facilities, a supportive community, and opportunities for professional development.

The Department of Physics at the University of Jyväskylä invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in nuclear astrophysics, starting March 2, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. This fixed-term, two-year position (with possible extension) is part of the newly established Centre of Excellence in Neutron-Star Physics, funded by the Research Council of Finland. The Centre provides long-term funding, strong national and international research connections, and resources for research visits and conference travel. The successful candidate will join the Exotic Nuclei and Beams (IGISOL) team and collaborate with the nuclear theory group led by Prof. Markus Kortelainen. Research will focus on nucleosynthesis calculations and modeling of the rapid proton capture process in thermonuclear x-ray bursts and/or the rapid neutron capture process in neutron-star mergers. The position offers a unique opportunity to explore nuclear data and their impact on neutron-star physics, in collaboration with Finnish and international partners. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in theoretical or computational nuclear astrophysics, astrophysics, or a closely related field, completed before the start date. Essential qualifications include a strong background in nucleosynthesis and astrophysical simulations, proficiency in computational methods and programming (C++, Python, Fortran), and excellent communication and teamwork skills. Experience with neutron star physics, high-performance computing, and nuclear models is preferred. Candidates must be ready to work in an international research team and meet the University’s language requirements. The position offers a competitive salary (3600–4800 €/month gross, depending on qualifications and experience), determined by the university salary system (demand level 5–6), with a settling-in allowance and support for relocation. Additional benefits include resources for research visits and conference travel, and a vibrant, multidisciplinary research environment. The University of Jyväskylä provides excellent working conditions, a lively campus, and is located in a city known for its high standard of living, strong educational and cultural scene, and beautiful natural surroundings. To apply, candidates must submit their application via the University of Jyväskylä online application form by February 4, 2026. Required documents (in English, PDF format) include a CV, motivation/cover letter, publication list, degree certificate, and contact details for at least two references. Applicants must have a public ORCID profile. For further information, contact Prof. Anu Kankainen ([email protected]). The University values equality and diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply.