If you are interested in applying for one of the positions below please contact the center.
In this postdoc project, the successful applicant will employ ab initio methods to study reactions towards complex organic molecules. The chosen reactions will be guided by experimental results from collaborators in the Center for Interstellar Catalysis. It will also be possible to pursue more independent theory-driven projects, including the development of new theoretical methods. In the group, we have extensive experience with machine learning (ML) methods, and it will be possible to include these approaches in the work. The ML methods could include approaches to accelerate structure optimization or the calculation of binding energies, diffusion and reaction barriers through ML interatomic potentials.
The project will be physically anchored at the Center for Interstellar Catalysis at Aarhus University in Denmark and will take place in close collaboration with partners engaged in computational modelling and simulations, laboratory experiments and astrochemical observations. Visits to partners in Leiden are anticipated.
You can learn more about InterCat here, Mie Andersen’s group here and Thanja Lamberts’s group here.
Application deadline 22nd May 2026.
Expected start date 1st August 2026.
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic scientist with a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics or a related field.
You will be part of the Center for Interstellar Catalysis working with observational astronomers supported by experimental surface scientistsworking in close collaboration with theoreticians.
Applicaiton deadline 26th May 2026.
Expected start date 1st Janurary 2027
Supervisors: Giulia Perotti
Research area and researh group:
You will work with high-sensitivity infrared and (sub-)millimeter spectroscopic observations, primarily from the James Webb Space Telescope and the Atacama Large (sub-)Millimeter Array probing gas and ices in protoplanetary disks. Preparatory work for upcoming mid-infrared and far-infrared facilities, such as ELT/METIS and potentially PRIMA, is also envisioned. You will co-supervise M.Sc. and Ph.D. students. Teaching may be included depending on the candidate’s interests and the needs of the department.
The group conducts research on star and planet formation, protoplanetary disks, and astrochemistry, with a strong focus on the observational characterization of the physical and chemical conditions in planet-forming environments. Members of the group combine observations from world class facilities with theoretical and numerical modelling to understand the origins of planetary systems and the chemical composition of embedded planets. The research environment is highly collaborative and international, welcoming new ideas. By promoting active engagement and the exchange of diverse perspectives, the research group aims at fostering a dynamic setting where innovative approaches can develop. This inclusive culture will strengthen the quality of the research while empowering team members to pursue novel directions and contribute meaningfully to the project’s goals.
Please email Giulia Perotti (tzd208@ku.dk) or intercat@phys.au.dk to express your interest.
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Applications are invited for a four-year PhD position in the Laboratory for Astrophysics at the Leiden Observatory, Leiden University.
The positions are available from 1 August 2026.
Title: PhD position in the Laboratory for Astrophysics
Supervisors: Ko-Ju Chuang, Sergio Ioppolo (Aarhus University), and Ewine van Dishoeck
Research area and project description:
This PhD project experimentally investigates the adsorption, diffusion, and reactivity of radicals on interstellar dust grains, focusing on their role in forming molecular building blocks of life (MBBLs) under molecular cloud conditions. The research aims to elucidate radical-driven chemical processes that occur without external energetic input, extending beyond well-studied simple ices and molecules (e.g., methanol, glyceraldehyde, glycine) to more complex species such as amino acids, sugars, and nucleobases. Using state-of-the-art laboratory setups, the project will identify reaction networks in interstellar ices, quantify key kinetic parameters, and assess the level of chemical complexity achievable prior to star formation. Results will be published in leading journals and contribute to INTERCAT (http://intercat.au.dk/) efforts, including observations and modeling.
Qualifications and specific competences:
Applicants to the PhD position must have a Master’s degree in experimental physics, astrochemistry, or a related field. Candidates with experience in laboratory instrumentation (ultra-high vacuum systems and cryogenic techniques), spectroscopy, and/or experimental surface science will be preferred.
Place of employment and place of work:
The place of employment will be based at the Laboratory for Astrophysics (https://labastro.strw.leidenuniv.nl/) within Leiden Observatory. A successful candidate may be asked to present at INTERCAT-related meetings and conduct a research stay at Aarhus.
Please see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/astronomy, and http://intercat.au.dk/ for further information.
Contacts:
Applicants seeking further information are invited to contact:
Ko-Ju Chuang or InterCat@phys.au.dk
Web Link:
The Niels Bohr Institute/Astrophysics and Planetary Science section invites applicants for two PhD fellowships in the chemistry of planet formation. The project is part of the Villum Young Investigator project “Chemistry meets Astrophysics: pathways to life-enabling ingredients during planet formation”. The PhD candidates will also benefit from a supportive and inspiring international environment and collaborations with partners across theory, laboratory experiments and astronomical observations within the Center for Interstellar Catalysis.
Application deadline 26th May 2026.
Expected start dates between September 2026 & Janurary 2027
Supervisor: Troels Haugbøll
Co-supervisor: Giulia Perotti
Project Description: The PhD project will investigate how the chemical composition of planet-forming disks shapes the volatile inventories of planets. Recent observations with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have revealed a surprising diversity in the chemistry of inner disks, including systems that appear depleted in water but enriched in hydrocarbons. The project will combine infrared spectroscopic observations from JWST with data from the Atacama Large (sub-)Millimeter Array (ALMA) to characterize the chemical composition and physical structure of disks around very low-mass objects. These observations will be complemented by numerical simulations to put firm constraints on the physical and chemical processes responsible for the observed diversity. The project will help establish how variations in disk chemistry influence the building blocks of planets.
Supervisor: Jes Jørgensen
Co-supervisor: Giulia Perotti
Project Description: The PhD project will focus on characterizing the solid budget of planet-forming disks, including both ices and refractory materials. The student will analyze infrared spectroscopic observations obtained with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), targeting a sample of protoplanetary disks. Spectral decomposition will be carried out using state-of-the-art fitting routines in combination with laboratory ice spectra, and the analysis will be complemented by radiative transfer modeling to derive ice column densities. By characterizing disk ices across a statistically significant sample, the project aims to reveal the chemical composition of the solid building blocks available for planet formation.
More information here:
Qualifications and specific competences:
To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project, e.g. physics, chemistry, biology.
Applicants seeking further information for this project are invited to contact Giulia Perotti, tzd208@ku.dk
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