We invite motivated candidates to apply for a postdoctoral position as part of the Centre of Excellence SOUL: Stellar evOlution in fUll gLory, a long-term project receiving structural funds from the Flemish government and awarded to Conny Aerts, Hugues Sana, Leen Decin, and Tom Van Doorsselaere. SOUL bridges the Institute of Astronomy (IvS) and the Centre of mathematical Plasma Astrophysics (CmPA) of KU Leuven in Belgium and aims to develop models of evolving close binaries and star-planet systems. The 4 PIs are well embedded in international consortia and collaborations, involving worldwide observatories on ground and in space, as well as high-performance computing centres.
The Institute of Astronomy (IvS) and Centre of mathematical Plasma Astrophysics (CmPA) of KU Leuven in Belgium are young and vibrant research groups of approximately 150 scientists, engineers, and administrative staff. The institutes are expertise centres in stellar and planetary physics and are active in several international consortia and collaborations, involving telescopes at observatories worldwide and in space. The institutes have a long tradition in instrumental, observational, computational, and theoretical studies of stellar evolution. The long-term SOUL project bridges the Department of Physics and Astronomy and the Department of Mathematics. Members of IvS and CmPA have access to parallel computing facilities at KU Leuven. The successful applicant of the current SOUL vacancy will be hosted by IvS, with ample opportunity to collaborate with CmPA.
The IvS and CmPA together are responsible for the organisation of the 2-year Master in Astronomy & Astrophysics and the 1-year Advanced Master of Space Studies of the Faculty of Science.
For more information: see https://fys.kuleuven.be/ster/research-projects/soul/soul, http://fys.kuleuven.be/ster/ (IvS) and https://wis.kuleuven.be/CmPA (CmPA)
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Responsibilities
The envisioned research will start from assembled literature samples of observed massive close binaries with one or more pulsating components. The aim is to use their measured asteroseismic properties, such as internal rotation and magnetic fields, to develop new modelling tools and interpret observed tidal effects. The tools should be able to compute the excitation and damping of (nonlinear) tides throughout the evolution of multiple systems, as well as to model tidal effects in observed binaries. An observation-driven modelling approach is envisioned, with the aim to calibrate tidal dissipation in binary evolution models of interacting dynamical rotating stars.
Profile
Applicants with a PhD degree in astrophysics or physics are eligible for the position. High proficiency in English is mandatory. Proven knowledge of the theory of non-radial oscillations of stars or of tides is an advantage. Furthermore, experience in student supervision is an asset for this position; the successful applicant will be expected to recruit and supervise students.
The application package should contain:
- A 1-page cover letter, indicating a motivational statement;
- A 2-page summary of previous research experience and achievements;
- A 1-page research statement;
- A curriculum vitae, with a full publications list;
- The names and contact details of three references who are prepared to send confidential recommendation letters should they be requested to do so.
Members of minorities and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
Offer
The successful postdoctoral applicant will be offered a 2-year contract at IvS with a possible extension of 2 years depending on performance. Salary for this position will be commensurate to the standard scale for post-doc researchers in Belgium and will depend on the number of years of experience after PhD.
The offered contract will include social and medical insurance as well as pension rights. Working hours are flexible and the opportunity for teleworking maximally 2 days per week is offered. Refund of commuting expenses when using public transport or bicycle are included. The KU Leuven offers access to childcare.
The short-listed applicants will be invited for an interview on 2nd or 3rd September 2026. Decisions will be communicated by 9th September 2026, followed by a 1-week term to decide on acceptance or rejection of the offered position.
The preferred starting date for the position is 16th November 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
- Application Deadline: 15th August 2026
- Selection Deadline: 9th September 2026
Interested?
General inquiries about SOUL and profile:
Attention To: Prof. Conny Aerts, SOUL Methusalem Beneficiary;
Subject: Methusalem Grant SOUL position;
Email: [email protected]
For questions on the application process: please contact Rose Stanley, [email protected]
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
