Free Education for PhD Position on Organic Chemistry in the Protosolar Nebula at Institute in Groningen, Netherland

PhD Position on Organic Chemistry in the Protosolar Nebula at The Kapteyn Astronomical Institute in Groningen, The Netherlands

The Kapteyn Astronomical Institute in Groningen, The Netherlands, is seeking an ambitious, highly motivated applicant for a 4-year PhD bursary position in Star and Planet Formation to work on organic chemistry in the protosolar nebula. The starting date can be anytime in 2008.

The PhD project will specifically study the processing and stability of organic material in the early Solar System and thereby studying the initial conditions for the formation of life. The goal is to assess the impact of stellar activity (UV and X-rays), winds and highly energetic particles on the formation and survival of abiotic organic species.

The work will involve the extension of currently existing chemical reaction databases, the development of a multi-phase gas-grain chemistry and the incorporation of laboratory results into local models of the protosolar nebula. The institute is part of the Netherlands Research School for Astronomy and belongs to the top research institutions in Astronomy worldwide. Research topics currently include cosmology, galaxy evolution, star and planet formation and interstellar matter.

Interested applicants should have a very good academic track record and hold the equivalent of a Masters degree, including a substantial thesis, in Astronomy or Physics when starting the position. Previous numerical experience and a strong chemistry background would be an asset.

Interested candidates should send application material, including curriculum vitae, education history with transcripts of study record, a brief statement of research experience and two letters of reference. Selection of candidates will start May 30, 2008, and will continue until the position is filled.

Please send applications to:
Dr. Inga Kamp
Kapteyn Astronomical Institute
Postbus 800
9700 AV Groningen
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)50 363 4070
email: kamp@astro.rug.nl

For inquiries about the position or project, please contact Dr. Kamp.

For further information on the Kapteyn Astronomical Institute, please visit the webpages at http://www.rug.nl/sterrenkunde/