Postdoc in Planet Formation at the GLOBE Institute

Postdoc in Planet Formation at the GLOBE Institute

We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic researcher for a 2 year position, with the possibility of a 1 year extension, to commence on 1 September 2022, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The position is targeted at researchers with experience in theoretical work in understanding the formation of planets and/or the evolution of protoplanetary discs.

Information on the department can be found at https://healthsciences.ku.dk/, https://globe.ku.dk/ and https://globe.ku.dk/research/starplan/ .

Our research

The research group working with Michiel Lambrechts focuses on understanding the origin of our Solar System and the formation of exoplanetary systems. Using numerical simulations, we explore the evolution of protoplanetary discs and their dust component, planetesimal formation, the growth of the protoplanets through pebble accretion, and the attraction of early gaseous envelopes around planetary cores.

The group is part of the StarPlan section at the GLOBE Institute of the University of Copenhagen (https://globe.ku.dk/research/starplan/). The broader StarPlan environment at the University of Copenhagen includes also researchers at the Niels Bohr Institute. StarPlan focuses on understanding the formation of planets by studying meteorites (Martin Bizzarro, Jim Connelly, Martin Schiller, Elishevah van Kooten, Zhengbin Deng), by developing planet formation theory and simulations (Anders Johansen, Michiel Lambrechts), by star formation theory and simulations (Troels Haugbølle, Åke Nordlund), by observations of star formation and protoplanetary discs (Jes Jørgensen), by studying the origin and evolution of dust (Anja Andersen) and by studying exoplanets and their atmospheres (Uffe Graae Jørgensen). We are physically located at the Natural History Museum of Denmark in the center of Copenhagen.

Project description

With the new EXODOSS project (funded by an ERC starting grant, PI: Michiel Lambrechts), we aim to revisit how Earth-like planets form, around our sun and other stars. This topic will be explored in the context of our modern understanding of (1) disc-wind-driven protoplanetary disc evolution (2) the role of pebble accretion and planetary migration on embryos in N-body simulations and (3) the effect of young embedded envelopes on the growth and composition of protoplanets.

The prospective candidate will be asked to work in one or several of this research directions, ideally building on your previous work. This will require developing numerical models, as well as making use of, and building on, state-of-the-art hydrodynamic and N-body simulation programs. Your work will be done in close collaboration with group members and will involve interdisciplinary research within the StarPlan environment. You will be supported in developing independent lines of research. StarPlan has a strong track record in aiding young researchers to next career stages.

More information can be found in the advertisment at the Job Portal of the University of Copenhagen

Application Procedure

Your online application must be submitted in English at the Job Portal of the University of Copenhagen. Furthermore, your application must include the following documents/attachments – all in PDF format:

1. Cover letter detailing your motivation and background for applying (max. one page)
2. CV incl. education, experience, language skills and other skills relevant for the position
3. A certified/signed copy of a) PhD certificate and b) Master of Science certificate. If the PhD is not completed, a written statement from the supervisor will do.
4. List of publications.

Application deadline: 22 April 2022, 23.59pm CET

University of Copenhagen wish to reflect the diversity of society and welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, race, religion or sexual orientation. Appointment will be based on merit alone.