The Institute for Astronomy of the ETH Zurich invites applications for two PhD positions in the new research group of Prof. Schawinski to work on active galaxies, galaxy-black hole co-evolution and the origin of black holes, as well as citizen science.
The first thesis project is about understanding the galaxy-black hole connection and black hole “feedback” using statistical samples of active and quiescent galaxies in deep, extragalactic multi-wavelength surveys.
The second thesis project is about how different accretion states of black holes may power feedback and transform their host galaxies using observations of stellar populations and gas in nearby and distant galaxies.
The Doctoral School of the ETH Institute for Astronomy offers PhD students a variety of basic and advanced courses, a vigorous schedule of international visitors, a dynamic series of external speakers in specialized seminars, and regular research colloquia covering a broad spectrum of Physics topics. The salary scale is attractive (CHF 51'750 - 59'250) and there is substantial support for travel (observing, conference, collaboration), computing and publication charges. Funding is available for up to four years. Zurich is regularly rated one of the top 10 cities of the world in terms of quality of life.
Applications are invited from all nationalities and should consist of a CV, description of relevant research experience, academic transcripts, scores from relevant standardised tests (e.g. TOEFL, Physics GRE) a personal statement of interests and goals, and the names of at least two references that can be contacted, to eth-astro-blackhole-phd@phys.ethz.ch. A Master’s degree is required. The deadline for applications is 7 December 2012. For further information, please contact Prof. Schawinski (kevin.schawinski@phys.ethz.ch).
