Two PhD positions in cosmology and galaxy evolution (1.0 FTE)

Theoretical physics uses concepts and methods encoded in mathematical language to explain physical reality. At the Institute for Theoretical Physics , we study physical systems on every scale, ranging from very small - quantum correction to gravity - to the largest possible scale - the universe. In between these extremes lie quantum and soft-condensed matter, which study the emergent properties of many-body systems. In theoretical physics, we aim to find answers to some of the most fundamental questions about our world and our existence.

At the Faculty of Science , there are 6 departments to make a fundamental connection with: Biology, Chemistry, Information and Computing Sciences, Mathematics, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Physics. Each of these is made up of distinct institutes that work together to focus on answering some of humanity’s most pressing problems. More fundamental still are the individual research groups – the building blocks of our ambitious scientific projects.

Utrecht University is a friendly and ambitious university at the heart of an ancient city. We love to welcome new scientists to our city – a thriving cultural hub that is consistently rated as one of the world’s happiest cities. We are renowned for our innovative interdisciplinary research and our emphasis on inspirational research and excellent education. We are equally well-known for our familiar atmosphere and the can-do attitude of our people. This fundamental connection attracts Researchers, Professors and PhD candidates from all over the globe, making both the university and the Faculty of Science a vibrant international and wonderfully diverse community.

The city of Utrecht is centrally located within the Netherlands. The airport can be reached in half an hour by train, and other major European cities are only a few hours away. With its urban area population of half a million people, Utrecht offers a charming historic city center and a lively, internationally oriented cultural scene. Utrecht is surrounded by a number of nature preserves and national parks, that provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Physics Department is located at Utrecht Science Park, the main campus of our university. The campus is approximately fifteen minutes by bicycle from Utrecht’s beautiful historic city centre and is also easy to reach by public transport.