2 PhD positions (4-year each) at the Molecular Astrophysics Department of IFF-CSIC, Madrid, Spain (Deadline:01.05.2026)
Two fully funded PhD positions are available at the Molecular Astrophysics Department of the Instituto de Física Fundamental in Madrid in the context of the ERC Starting Grant project “ISOCOSMOS”. Isomeric imbalances are precious proxies to diagnose a variety of astronomical environments, where the very low temperatures essentially impose a strict kinetic control on molecular inventories. In this project, we aim to understand and leverage the isomeric ratios observed in interstellar environments, proposing new isomers for interstellar detection, rationalizing their chemical routes of formation and destruction, and ultimately using them as probes of the physical conditions of their host environments.
The two PhD candidates will focus on the theoretical modelling of isomer-selective processes in interstellar environments, working on two complementary aspects:
(i) isomer-specific gas-phase reactions (e.g., ion-neutral, neutral-neutral reactions) and tunneling-mediated isomerization in vacuum,
(ii) isomerization and isomer-selective reactions on icy dust grain surfaces, for example through tunneling-mediated hydrogen addition and abstraction reactions.
The candidates will employ state-of-the-art quantum chemistry and molecular dynamics methods to sample the potential energy surfaces of relevant reactions, connecting the resulting surfaces with the derivation of reaction rate constants and inclusion of the data in our astrochemical kinetic models. Finally, the results will be compared with astronomical observation campaigns carried out in our institute.
The candidates will work under the supervision of Dr. Germán Molpeceres in both projects, with co-supervision of Dr. Octavio Roncero for the gas-phase reaction project.
Candidate profile and requirements
The candidate must hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field. In accordance with CSIC regulations, a Master’s title is required to formalize the contract. Consequently, applications from candidates who do not hold a Master’s degree, or who do not plan to obtain it before the end of the 2025–2026 academic year (July 2026), cannot be considered.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in quantum chemistry, together with solid programming (Python, Fortran) and data visualization skills. A good understanding of chemical kinetics and reaction dynamics is also highly desirable, as is familiarity with machine learning techniques applied to molecular sciences. A genuine interest in astrophysics is essential, although prior experience in the field is not strictly required.
What we offer
We offer two fully funded 4-year PhD positions, with a competitive salary according to the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) standards. The candidates will have access to dedicated computational facilities at the IFF-CSIC as well as centralized CSIC supercomputing resources. The candidates will also have the opportunity to attend international conferences and workshops, as well as to visit collaborating institutions abroad. Estimated start date: July 2026 – February 2027
Application process
Applicants should send a CV, a motivation letter, the contact details of at least one referee, and the position of preference (gas-phase or surface chemistry) to Dr. Germán Molpeceres (german.molpeceres@iff.csic.es). The starting date is flexible within 2026 and the beginning of 2027. If the MSc degree has not yet been obtained, applicants should indicate the expected completion date. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
