PhD student in the study of the physics and chemistry in evolved stars

Curiosity is the driving force behind the research at the Department of Earth and Space Sciences and our goals are to find new knowledge about space, our earth and our future energy supply. Through observations of the universe as well as earth, we make predictions about the future and promote sustainable development. To reach our goals, we develop highly sensitive measuring instruments and observational methods, as well as advanced algorithms for data analysis and theoretical models.

The department has roughly 110 employees, divided into seven research groups and one administrative group. We are situated at campus Johanneberg and Onsala Space Observatory.


Information about the research group
The radio astronomy and astrophysics group is situated at the Onsala Space Observatory, which is the Swedish national facility for Radio Astronomy. The observatory operates telescopes in Sweden, shares in the APEX telescope in Chile, and hosts the Nordic ALMA Regional Center (ARC). The research topics of the radio astronomy and astrophysics group range from galaxy formation and evolution, to galaxy clusters and Galactic star formation, and evolved stars. The evolved stars research group at Onsala Space Observatory is one of the largest in Europe, with approximately 10 members from senior scientists to PhD students. The group is active in observational astronomy at all wavelengths, with a focus on millimeter and submillimeter facilities, as well as radiative transfer modelling of molecular line emission and dust. 

Major responsibilities
Applications are invited for a PhD position in the study of evolved stars. The project will make use of instruments such as ALMA, APEX, SMA, and IRAM 30m in the millimeter/sub-millimeter, as well as optical and infrared observations with, e.g., VLT and Herschel. The position will focus on the physical and chemical properties of low-mass evolved stars on the AGB, as well as proto-planetary nebulae. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to influence the details of the research project, with the possibility to combine observations with theoretical modelling. The PhD student will be expected to lead the work in close collaboration with the other members of the group. The research will mainly be done at Onsala Space Observatory, where Chalmers hosts the Swedish National Facility for Radio Astronomy.

Position summary
Full-time temporary employment. The position is limited to a maximum of five years.

Qualifications
An MSc in astronomy or physics or similar is required. Experience with stellar evolution and/or observational techniques would be an asset. Good command of the English language is required.

Chalmers continuously strives to be an attractive employer. Equality and diversity are substantial foundations in all activities at Chalmers.

Application procedure
The application should be marked with Ref 20150301 and written in English. The application should be sent electronically via Chalmers webpage.


Application deadline: November 2, 2015

For questions, please contact:
Dr. Wouter Vlemmings,
Earth and Space Sciences,
wouter.vlemmings@chalmers.se,
+46 31-772 5509

Dr. Matthias Maercker,
Earth and Space Sciences,
matthias.maercker@chalmer.se,
+46 31-772 5521

*** Chalmers declines to consider all offers of further announcement publishing or other types of support for the recruiting process in connection with this position. *** 

   



Chalmers University of Technology conducts research and education in engineering sciences, architecture, technology-related mathematical sciences, natural and nautical sciences, working in close collaboration with industry and society. The strategy for scientific excellence focuses on our eight Areas of Advance; Built Environment, Energy, Information & Communication Technology, Life Science, Materials Science, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Production and Transport. The aim is to make an active contribution to a sustainable future using the basic sciences as a foundation and innovation and entrepreneurship as the central driving forces. Chalmers has around 11,000 students and 3,000 employees. New knowledge and improved technology have characterised Chalmers since its foundation in 1829, completely in accordance with the will of William Chalmers and his motto: Avancez!