4-year PhD Position

Dr. Michael Tremmel (https://www.ucc.ie/en/physics/people/drmichaeltremmel/) is advertising a 4-year PhD position at University College Cork to study early galaxy and massive black hole formation and evolution using cosmological simulations. The student will gain experience developing sub-grid models for MBH physics (accretion, growth, dynamics) and will utilize HPC resources to design and run their own cosmological simulations, which they will analyze with local computing facilities. A primary research focus of the group is on early MBH growth and galaxy formation, predictions for gravitational wave detectors, and comparison with JWST data.

The student will also become a part of an international collaboration of astrophysicists working on studying galaxies (as well as planet formation) using hydrodynamic simulations (link: nbody.shop). 

A bachelor’s degree in physics or a closely related field is required. Candidates that expect to complete a Masters degree in astronomy or closely related field before the end of the year are strongly preferred. Extensive astronomy research experience is required, and related experience (galaxies, cosmological simulations) is preferred. 

This will be a 4-year full time position that comes with a stipend of 25,000 Euro per year (tax free) and all student fees covered.

To Apply:

• Submit a CV with contact information, unofficial transcript, and a 1 page cover letter describing your background and interests.
• Please also provide the names and email addresses for two references
• Send all the above materials in a single pdf document via email to mtremmel@ucc.ie with subject line “Application to Astrophysics PhD Position at UCC”
• Call the document LastName_FirstName_UCC_Astro_PhD_2025.pdf (replacing Last and First name with your own)

Deadline: 6 June, 2025

Enrollment/Start Date (flexible): 1 October, 2025

A shortlist will be created and interviews will be planned for mid-June, with a first offer anticipated by early July.

For more information on the department: https://www.ucc.ie/en/physics/ 
For more information on astrophysics research at UCC: https://www.ucc.ie/en/astro/