Doctoral student in Astronomy and Astrophysics

The Galactic Center as a laboratory for galaxy formation: spectroscopy and simulations
The field of galaxy formation and evolution is currently attracting significant scientific attention from several perspectives. Observations are being compared with cutting-edge simulations, both of individual galaxies and zoom-in studies within a cosmic context. One of the most exciting regions for studying the Milky Way specifically, as well as the dynamics of galaxy centers in general, is the Galactic Center. With advancements in both simulations and observational technology, now is the perfect time to delve into the detailed study of the Milky Way’s Nuclear Star Cluster (NSC) and Nuclear Stellar Disk (NSD).

Fueled by large gas inflows channeled by the Galactic bar, the Galactic Center has become the Milky Way's largest reservoir of dense gas, giving rise to a diverse range of stellar populations spanning different ages. A powerful tool to study these populations is to analyze abundance trends versus metallicities. These studies complement existing research on dynamics, kinematics, star-formation histories, and metallicity distributions. Since different elements trace different nucleosynthetic processes, each with its own evolutionary timescale, these trends can reveal key insights into the formation and evolution of stellar populations, highlighting differences driven by factors such as star formation rates and gas inflows.

Work duties
This project will bring together cutting-edge spectroscopic investigations of stars in the Galactic Center and innovative chemical evolution models, as well as zoom-in simulations, of the inner galaxy. Half of the project will focus on spectroscopic studies of NSC and NSD stars observed with IGRINS, utilizing both existing and newly collected data. With access to the upcoming MOONS spectrometer data, secured through Ryde's membership in the Galactic Center working group, the PhD student will have unique opportunities. The research will involve refining methods of stellar abundance determination and analyzing abundance trends, with a special focus on the s-elements, which will provide fresh insights into the inner Milky Way.

The chemical analysis will lay the groundwork for simulating gas flows and star formation in the inner regions of galaxies, which will form the second part of the thesis. The two components will run in parallel, with a gradual transition from spectroscopy to simulations, offering a comprehensive, cutting-edge exploration of galaxy evolution.

The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Entry requirements

Admission requirements
A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Specific admission requirements:

To be admitted to the third-cycle programme in Astronomy and Astrophysics the student must have earned credits in first and second-cycle programmes in which physics, mathematics and/or corresponding engineering subjects have been substantial elements. In addition to 60 credits in basic physics, there is a requirement for at least 60 credits in subjects of relevance to Astronomy and Astrophysics, e.g., courses in astronomy or other physics subjects, or engineering subjects such as space technology and automatic control. The 120 credits must include at least 60 second-cycle credits. The first and second-cycle courses must include a degree project comprising 30 credits

Equivalent knowledge acquired through corresponding programmes will be assessed individually. In order to enable interdisciplinary initiatives and important specialisations in certain areas, students with qualifications in subjects other than Physics may be considered for admission.

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Finally, the student must be judged to have the potential to complete the programme.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Basis of assessment
Selection to postgraduate studies is based on the expected ability to perform well in the studies. The evaluation of the ability to perform well is based primarily on the results of studies at the basic and advanced levels, in particular:

1. Knowledge and skills relevant to the thesis project and the subject of the study.
2. An assessment of ability to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems.
3. Written and oral communication skills
4. Other experience relevant to postgraduate studies, such as professional experience.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment
Only those admitted to third cycle studies may be appointed to a doctoral studentship. Third cycle studies at LTH consist of full-time studies for 4 years. A doctoral studentship is a fixed-term employment of a maximum of 5 years (including 20% departmental duties). Doctoral studentships are regulated in the Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100), chapter 5, 1-7 §§.

Instructions on how to apply
Applications may be written in English or Swedish and include a cover letter stating the reasons why you are interested in the position and in what way the research project corresponds to your interests and educational background. The application must also contain a CV, degree certificate or equivalent, and other documents you wish to be considered (grade transcripts, contact information for your references, letters of recommendation, etc.).