The CmPA is a dynamic, diverse, and international welcoming environment pursuing a broad variety of research topics. In the context of newly created research groups (profs. Fabio Bacchini, Jasmina Magdalenić, Nicolas Wijsen), we seek 3 junior researchers (<=3 years postdoc experience) to carry out kinetic (Particle-in-Cell, PIC) simulations of heliospheric plasmas, as well as global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) modelling of the solar corona, also including a model-validation part. The positions specifically target the study of solar-wind turbulence and heliospheric shocks, and the associated particle acceleration, radio-emission mechanisms, as well as flux-rope evolution and energetic-particle transport in the solar corona. Depending on the specific project, each position may benefit from interactions with researchers at the Royal Observatory of Belgium (Brussels), Royal Belgian Institute of Space Aeronomy (Brussels), and KU Leuven campus KULAK (Kortrijk). Part of the postdoc tenure may be carried out at these institutes in addition to the CmPA at KU Leuven campus Heverlee.
Applications are accepted until the end of May 2025, but selection will continue until all positions are filled.
Responsibilities
The general goal is to perform state-of-the-art (and beyond) computer simulations of heliospheric plasma processes with kinetic (PIC) methods and MHD models. The specific goals to be pursued within the 1+1-year period are tied to the aforementioned topics (turbulence, shocks, particle acceleration, radio emission, flux-rope evolution, and energetic-particle transport in the solar corona). However, the candidate is also free to propose a personal research path if it aligns with these general topics. Likewise, the numerical tools for this research can be in-house codes (e.g. iPiC3D, ECSIM, Zeltron, COCONUT) or any other code suitable for the project and accessible by the candidates. The KU Leuven provides access to Tier-2 computing facilities, and Tier-1 Belgian machines are easily accessible via dedicated computing proposals.
The ideal candidates are junior researchers with a maximum of 3 years of postdoctoral experience. They should have a strong interest in the kinetic physics of space plasmas, with a preference for candidates who have significant experience in performing numerical simulations on supercomputing facilities. Applications are also welcome from candidates with experience in directly related topics (e.g., magnetohydrodynamic simulations, astrophysical observations, analytic plasma models, etc.). Experience with solar-physics topics is desirable.
We encourage the publication of the results in high impact peer-reviewed journals in the domains of astrophysics, space physics, space weather, computational physics, and related topics.
Profile
Required:
- Knowledge and/or strong interest in plasma physics (kinetic and/or fluid).
- At least basic knowledge of solar physics
- Experience in modelling and simulations
- Experience in using parallel computing facilities
Desirable:
- Experience with kinetic plasma simulations.
- Knowledge of computational methods applied to physics, e.g. PiC and MHD.
- A proposal for a research line to be developed over two years on the topics outlined above.
Education: PhD degree in physics, engineering, mathematics, or equivalent field, obtained within the last 3 years (at the time of applying); preferentially, experience in computer modelling of plasmas and a clear motivation to work with astrophysical applications.
Offer
Each position offers a full-time 1-year contract (renewable for another year upon satisfactory performance) with a competitive salary. The funding is tied to a maximum 2-year period, but the contracts could be further extended depending on performance evaluation and available financing from other sources.
We encourage the selected candidate to propose and pursue research topics of their own interest. We value initiative and promote new research directions.
Interested?
The application will require:
- A curriculum vitae;
- A statement of research interests or research proposal (free format, max 3 pages plus references);
- Up to 3 letters of reference to be directly sent by the reference person(s) to fabio.bacchini@kuleuven.be
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
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