PhD fellowship in Theoretical Astrophysics
PhD Project in Black Hole Binaries
Niels Bohr Institute
Faculty of SCIENCE
University of Copenhagen The Niels Bohr Institute invites applicants for a PhD fellowship in Theoretical Astrophysics. The project is part of the research project “New Paradigm for Black Hole Binary Mergers”, which is financed by the Carlsberg Foundation.
The start date is September 1st, 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The project The detection of gravitational waves ignited one of the most exciting revolutions in modern science by opening up a new window into our Universe. We will soon have access to statistical information about the distribution of masses, eccentricities, and spins of black holes in merging binary systems. Our lack of knowledge on how black hole binaries evolve and merge is one of the biggest sources of uncertainty when connecting theoretical models with gravitational wave observations. This PhD project will address this important problem relying on sophisticated computer simulations, complemented with analytical and semi-analytical approaches.
Who are we looking for? We are looking for candidates within the field of Theoretical and Computational Astrophysics with emphasis on astrophysical fluid dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics. It is highly desirable for the candidate to posses expertise in astrophysical fluid dynamics and programming skills. Additionally, experience with the numerical code for astrophysical fluid dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics Athena++ will be considered valuable assets.
Our group and research- and what do we offer? The Theoretical Astrophysics Group is part of the Niels Bohr International Academy (NBIA) hosted by The Niels Bohr Institute Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. The Theoretical Astrophysics Group strives for a comprehensive approach to astrophysics. Current research areas encompass protoplanetary disks and planet formation, accretion disks surrounding compact objects, galaxy clusters, and the physics of gravitational-wave sources. All problems are tackled with a wide perspective, ranging from fundamental theoretical aspects to state-of-the-art simulations with the aim of linking theory and models with observations. The NBIA is committed to fostering the traditions of internationalism, interdisciplinarity and excellence in physics, which characterize the Niels Bohr Institute. It functions as a primary center for fundamental research including particle and astroparticle physics, astrophysics and gravity, condensed matter physics, quantum optics, and biophysics. We offer creative, open, and stimulating working conditions in a dynamic and international research environment. The group has exclusive access to some of the largest dedicated astrophysics computing resources in Scandinavia, including a general-purpose high-performance computing cluster.
We offer creative and stimulating working conditions in dynamic and international research environment. Our research facilities include state-of-the-art computing facilities.
Principal supervisor is Prof. Martin Pessah, Niels Bohr Institute,
[xxxxx] Phone:
[xxxxx] The PhD programme A
three year full-time study within the framework of
the regular PhD programme (5+3 scheme),
if you already have an education
equivalent to a relevant Danish master’s degree. ******************************************************************************** Qualifications needed for the regular programme 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. [relevant educations]. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database.
Terms of employment in the regular programme Employment as PhD fellow is full time and for maximum 3 years.
Employment is conditional upon your successful enrolment as a PhD student at the PhD School at the Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. This requires submission and acceptance of an application for the specific project formulated by the applicant.
Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State. The position is covered by the Protocol on Job Structure.
Responsibilities and tasks for the PhD programme - Carry through an independent research project under supervision
- Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE
- Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
- Teaching and knowledge dissemination activities
- Write scientific papers aimed at high-impact journals
- Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project
We are looking for the following qualifications: - Professional qualifications relevant to the PhD project
- Relevant publications
- Relevant work experience
- Other relevant professional activities
- Curious mind-set with a strong interest in Theoretical Astrophysics
- Good language skills
*************************************************************************** Application and Assessment Procedure Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.
Please include:
- Motivated letter of application (max. one page)
- Your motivation for applying for the specific PhD project/State which PhD project you are applying for.
- Curriculum vitae including information about your education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
- Original diplomas for Bachelor or Master and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
- Publication list (if possible)
Application deadline: The deadline for applications is Sunday May 10th 2026 GMT +2
. We reserve the right not to consider material received after the deadline, and not to consider applications that do not live up to the abovementioned requirements.
The further process After deadline, a number of applicants will be selected for academic assessment by an unbiased expert assessor. You are notified whether you will be passed for assessment.
The assessor will assess the qualifications and experience of the shortlisted applicants with respect to the above-mentioned research area, techniques, skills and other requirements. The assessor will conclude whether each applicant is qualified and, if so, for which of the two models. The assessed applicants will have the opportunity to comment on their assessment. You can read about the recruitment process at
[xxxxx] Interviews with selected candidates are expected to be held in week 23 [Jun 10-12].
Questions For specific information about the PhD fellowship, please contact the principal supervisor.
General information about PhD study at the Faculty of SCIENCE is available at the PhD School’s website:
[xxxxx] The University of Copenhagen wishes to reflect the surrounding community and invites all regardless of personal background to apply for the position. Kilde:
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