Nicolas Wijsen

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 successful candidate will join the Space Plasma Research Lab, focusing on space physics and advanced computational modelling of plasma processes. This 4-year PhD position centers on simulations of plasma phenomena using state-of-the-art codes and high-performance computing systems, within the Department of Mathematics. The research project, supervised by Prof. dr. Nicolas Wijsen, aims to numerically model solar energetic particles (SEPs) produced during large-scale solar eruptions, with the goal of advancing physics-based space weather forecasting. The Sun frequently ejects coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which can drive shock waves and accelerate particles to high energies. These SEPs are scientifically significant and pose risks to satellites, astronauts, and technological infrastructure. The project is part of a broader effort to understand particle acceleration at CME-driven shocks and their propagation through the heliosphere. The candidate will employ advanced numerical models, including magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) and kinetic approaches, to study CME evolution and SEP transport under realistic solar and heliospheric conditions. Results will be compared with spacecraft observations from missions such as Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter. The research combines fundamental plasma physics with practical applications in space weather forecasting, offering opportunities for collaboration with national and international partners. Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a master’s degree in physics, astrophysics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related field by the end of the current academic year. Distinction-level academic results and proficiency in English (written and oral) are required. Experience with programming (Python or C++) and numerical simulations is advantageous. The candidate should be able to work independently and as part of a team, and will contribute to teaching by supervising practice sessions in physics and/or mathematics within bachelor’s programmes at KU Leuven Campus Kulak. The PhD appointment is a 1-year tax-free bursary contract, renewable annually for up to 4 years, equivalent to the net salary of a doctoral research assistant in Belgium. KU Leuven offers a comprehensive benefits package, including holiday bonuses, hospitalisation insurance, free public transport, bicycle allowance, staff discounts, and access to sports and cultural facilities. The preferred start date is September or October 2026. Applications must be submitted via the KU Leuven application portal and should include a CV, motivation letter, transcript of records, and contact details of two references. Reference letters are not required at this stage. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Nicolas Wijsen at [email protected]. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, and offers support for accessibility and other needs.

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.