“Probing light dark sectors in extreme astrophysical objects”. This position represents an opportunity for young researchers to get involved in research at the forefront of theoretical astroparticle physics. The project is based on the theoretical modeling and phenomenological study of signatures of physics beyond the Standard model (BSM physics) in extreme astrophysical environments. This entails the characterization of the BSM signals over astrophysical backgrounds within the context of multi-messenger astronomy. The focus will be on identifying signals of “light” (sub-GeV) dark matter candidates such as axions, dark photons, etc. Specific applications can include (but are not limited to):

Host institutions : This is a joint PhD (cotutelle agreement) between the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) and the Laboratoire d'Annecy-le-Vieux de Physique Théorique (LAPTh) , under the joint supervision of Dr Jorge Martin Camalich (IAC) and Dr Francesca Calore (LAPTh). The PhD position will be hosted by the IAC, but the successful candidate is expected to spend 30%-50% of the time at LAPTh.

Additional Information: This PhD position is part of “UNDARK” (Unraveling the Dark Universe from the Canary Island Observatories), a recently funded European consortium involving IAC, LAPTh, CERN, IFAE and Weizmann Institute. It offers ample resources for participation in conferences/workshops and visiting periods for scientific collaboration with world-leading experts in astroparticle physics.

Duration: 3 years.

- Master degree (or equivalent) in Physics and/or Astrophysics. We seek candidates with a strong background in particle physics (quantum field theory) and astrophysics. Students with a strong curriculum in astrophysics will also be considered.

- The degree should comprise 300 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS should be part of a Master program. This requirement should be fulfilled by August 2024. 

Procedure: Interested candidates should contact Francesca Calore (francesca.calore@lapth.cnrs.fr) and Jorge Martin Camalich (jcamalich@iac.es) before May 10th and send the following information:

- Statement of research interests (it can be also added as part of your email).

- Transcripts of bachelor and master studies (if you have finished the latter).

- Current CV.

- Master thesis (if you have completed it).

- OPTIONAL: English certificates (if you are not a native speaker).

Reference letters are not needed at this point.

- Deadline of applications: May 10th.

- Notification of short-list: May 17th.

- Interviews: May 21 - 23.

- Final decision: June 5th.

- Start of the contract: October 1st.