PhD position in Laboratory Astrochemistry / Astrophysics at the University of Rennes, France

Applications are invited for a fully funded 3-year PhD position in experimental chemical physics in the group of Ian Sims at the Institute of Physics Rennes (France), starting between October and December 2026. The project forms part of the ANR-funded BRIGHTER programme, led by Ian Sims and François Lique, which combines experiment and theory to investigate collisional energy transfer and reactivity between molecules at very low temperatures. The research has direct applications in molecular astrophysics and astrochemistry, improving the interpretation of astronomical observations of molecules in interstellar space, cometary comae and planetary atmospheres, while also advancing our fundamental understanding of molecular collisions. The successful candidate will work in close collaboration with experimental and theoretical teams at Rennes and will have the opportunity to spend time at RIKEN (Japan) working on complementary spectroscopic experiments and astronomical observations.

The project will exploit state-of-the-art instrumentation, including new chirped-pulse millimetre-wave spectrometers, pulsed lasers and CRESU technology, to study collisional excitation and reaction kinetics of astrophysically important molecules and radicals such as HCO, SiH, SiS, SiN, HCHO and C₂H₂. Candidates should hold (or expect to obtain) a Master’s degree in physics, physical chemistry or a related field, with experience in experimental techniques such as lasers, spectroscopy, vacuum systems or electronics being advantageous. Applications, including a CV citing grades, cover letter and referee details (2-3), should be sent to Prof. Ian Sims (ian.sims@univ-rennes.fr). Review of applications has begun and will continue until the position is filled. Further details are available here: