PhD and Master positions in Astrophysics at 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 2024, 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 comprising ~15 faculty, ~20 postdocs, and ~60 graduate students.
• Cutting-edge observational and theoretical research in cosmology; extragalactic, galactic and stellar astrophysics; stellar and planetary dynamics; astrochemistry; high-energy astrophysics; numerical simulations; and astronomical instrumentation.
• 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 Master’s degree applicants. Includes stipend for living expenses plus tuition and fees. Funding for travel, research, publications and computers.
• 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 s/he 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 language. Previous research experience is beneficial.

Application materials:

• Cover 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 2 and a maximum of 3 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). Recommenders will receive an automatic email on where to upload their letters.
• Copy of official 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 student’s ranking within their class.
• Copy of title, academic degree certificate, or an official letter from their University indicating expected graduation date.
• Any other information that the student would like to add: e.g., results 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 gradapp@astro.puc.cl.

Important deadlines:

Application Deadline: Thursday, August 31, 2023

Selection Deadline: Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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