PhD for Stellar Evolution Theory

About our Campus: Hebrew University’s Edmond J. Safra Campus is a vibrant hub of academic and research excellence nestled in the heart of Jerusalem. Our modern campus boasts state-of-the-art lab facilities, world-renowned faculty, and a stimulating environment that fosters scientific exploration, intellectual growth, and innovation.

About Our Department: The Racah Institute of Physics offers top-tier research across a wide range of disciplines, including nanophysics, biophysics, nonlinear and condensed matter physics, few-body systems, nuclear and hadronic physics, high-energy physics, and astrophysics. It also serves a diverse group of students at all levels, from a rigorous undergraduate curriculum to advanced graduate degrees. This commitment to excellence is exemplified by Racah Institute graduate and Nobel laureate, Prof. David Gross. 

About Our Research: Astrophysics is at the forefront of scientific research, driven by recent breakthroughs like the discovery of gravitational waves, extrasolar planetary systems, and fast radio bursts. The astrophysics group at the Hebrew University tackles some of the most pressing questions in the field, such as the origins of dark energy and dark matter, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the formation of the heaviest elements in the universe. While much of our research is theoretical, we also conduct observational studies primarily in radio astronomy and operate a powerful computer cluster for advanced numerical computations. Our research encompasses a range of topics, including high-energy astrophysics, compact objects, stellar structure, planetary science, galactic physics, cosmology, and general relativity. Additionally, a 0.5-meter optical telescope located atop the Ross Building is used for educational purposes, enhancing our commitment to student learning and engagement.

Job Description: We are seeking motivated PhD candidates to join our research on stellar evolution theory, exploring topics such as:

• White dwarfs
• Red giants
• Neutron stars
• Binary systems
• Magnetic fields

About Your Supervisor: Dr. Sivan Ginzburg (see his website here), a Senior Lecturer at the Racah Institute of Physics, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, brings extensive experience in theoretical astrophysics. Previously a prestigious 51 Pegasi b Fellow at both Caltech and UC Berkeley, Dr. Ginzburg earned his Ph.D. in Physics at the Hebrew University, where he focused on exoplanet formation and evolution. His research, supported by grants from the Israel Science Foundation, the US-Israel Binational Science Foundation, and the Ministry of Science, covers high-energy astrophysics, planetary science, and stellar evolution. Dr. Ginzburg also leads a team of graduate students and frequently publishes on complex astrophysical phenomena, offering invaluable mentorship and expertise to emerging researchers.

Funding:  We encourage you to ask about our approach to compensation during the interview process.

Your Profile: To excel in this role, we seek candidates with: 

• Degree in physics or astronomy – required

Embracing Diversity: At Hebrew University we believe that diversity inspires creativity, fosters curiosity, and enriches our ecosystem through academic collaboration and cultural exchange. We consider every member of our community an integral part, irrespective of their religion, gender, or ethnic origin.

HUJI is home to nearly 25,000 students across our 6 campuses, including ~2,500 per year representing 90+ countries. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to engage with your peers here on equal ground, in an environment that promotes equity and inclusion, and celebrates the contribution of its talented members. 

Application: We welcome your application via our online portal, complete with all required documents compiled into a single PDF:

• Letter of motivation
• CV (including a list of publications)
• Brief statement of research interests (max. 1500 characters)
• Copy of your original academic degree(s)

Application Deadline: Applications must be submitted through our online portal by February 30, 2025.

About Hebrew University: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI) is one of the world's leading research institutions, consistently ranked as a global top 100 university. Established by luminaries such as Albert Einstein, we’re at the forefront of groundbreaking research, entrepreneurship, and innovation across various domains, including brain sciences, medicine, biomedicine, life sciences, mathematics, agriculture, and more. Our 6 campuses house 100+ research centers, with ~4,000 research projects underway year-round. 

About Jerusalem: Hebrew University is an integral part of Jerusalem, Israel’s capital and one of the most fascinating, diverse cities on earth. Thousands of students from across the globe live in Jerusalem, immersing themselves in its vibrant cultural and culinary scenes, while marveling at the juxtaposition of its 3,000-year-old history and cutting-edge modernity. Students make the most of their spare time by enjoying Jerusalem’s myriad attractions, from restaurants, cafes and pubs, to dance clubs, museums, theaters, and year-round festivals.