PhD and Master positions in Astrophysics at the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

The Institute of Astrophysics at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (IA-PUC) invites applications to our Ph.D. (4-yr) and Master’s (2-yr) programs, beginning March 2020, from talented students with undergraduate backgrounds in all areas of astrophysics and physics, or closely related fields.

Program Details:

• One of the leading astronomy centers in Latin America.
• Active and dynamic international community comprised of 16 faculty, ~30 postdocs, and ~50 graduate students.
• Cutting-edge research in cosmology, extragalactic and Galactic astrophysics, astrochemistry, astronomical instrumentation, high-energy astrophysics, and numerical simulations. 
• 10% privileged access to a wide array of world-class observing facilities in Chile.
• Rich and vibrant scientific life including mentorship with world-class faculty, weekly seminars and colloquia, daily journal-club discussion, group meetings, strong visitor program, and travel to national and international conferences, all of which offer plentiful opportunities for networking and collaboration at many levels.
• Guaranteed external or internal 4-yr scholarships to all accepted Ph.D. applicants, and a limited number of internal 2-yr scholarships to exceptional Masters degree applicants. Includes stipend for living expenses plus tuition and fees. 
• Funding for travel, research, publications and computers. 
• English is the default language of the Institute.
• Provide advanced training as a professional researcher, who will be able to compete effectively for academic positions if he/she chooses to do so, or pivot into observatory or industry careers.

Requirements:  

• Applicants should have an undergraduate and/or master’s degree in Astronomy (or closely related fields), full-time commitment, and a good command of the English and/or Spanish language. Previous research experience is beneficial.

Application materials:

• Letter outlining applicant’s motivation to train as a researcher in astrophysics, and in particular at IA-PUC in the Ph.D. or Master’s program, research experience (if any), research interests, and career plans and goals (max 2 pages).
• Curriculum Vitae (max 3 pages, including any publications):
• A minimum of two and a maximum of three letters of recommendation sent directly by the recommenders, written in Spanish or English, by people who know the applicant well and can give a thorough assessment of the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses (e.g., classwork, teaching, investigation, and personal character).
• Copy of undergraduate (and graduate, if available) academic transcripts, translated into English or Spanish if necessary, and a clear indication of the grading scale system and the ranking of the student within their class.
• Copy of title or academic degree certificate or an official letter from their University indicating expected graduation date.
• Any other information that the student would like to add: for example the result of some standardized test such as the GRE and/or TOEFL.

All application materials (aside from letters of recommendation) should be submitted via our application form. Shortlisted applicants will be scheduled for interviews. All questions should be directed to [email protected]. 

IA-PUC is committed to equal opportunity and diversity in its workforce, including but not limited to religious freedom.