PhD scholarship in Exoplanet Science - Discovery and Characterization of Small Planets - DTU Space

The Exoplanet Group at DTU Space, Technical University of Denmark, invites applications for a three-year PhD scholarship exoplanet science. Our group focuses on the discovery and characterization of small planets, from rocky worlds to super-Earths and sub-Neptunes. We combine observations, data analysis, modeling, and instrument development to understand the properties and diversity of these planets and the processes that shape their evolution.

Our research has two particularly active areas. In atmospheric characterization, we study the atmospheres of small exoplanets using observations from both space- and ground-based observatories, aiming to understand their composition, evolution, and retention. Much of our current research draws on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), for which our group has led several successful observing programs (GO 2420, GO 3730, and GO 7675), alongside our involvement in numerous international collaborations, including involvement in ESA's Ariel Mission (Buchhave co-PI).

In extreme-precision radial velocity (EPRV) research, we work toward detecting and measuring low-mass planets, including through the Second Earth Spectrograph (2ES; PI: Buchhave; www.2es.dk). 2ES is a next-generation spectrograph under development for the MPG/ESO 2.2-m Telescope at La Silla, Chile, designed to search for temperate Earth-mass planets around bright southern solar-type stars. The project spans instrumentation, data analysis, stellar activity, and the preparation for commissioning and early science.

Our aim is to recruit a researcher whose scientific interests and expertise complement the group's work. The successful candidate will be free to pursue the questions in exoplanet science that they find most compelling, whether these connect directly to our current projects or bring related perspectives and methods to the group.

We consider an open and cooperative research atmosphere to be extremely important. Group members take an interest in one another's science, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities to work together. We hope to welcome a colleague who enjoys participating in such an environment while developing their own independent research.

You will join Prof. Lars A. Buchhave and Assistant Prof. Alexander Rathcke, and the growing Exoplanet Group at DTU Space (www.exoplanets.dk), located in the greater Copenhagen area. The group has access to data from world-class observatories, including JWST, precision RV spectrographs, and ESO facilities, and collaborates widely with researchers abroad.

Responsibilities and qualifications
We expect the successful candidate to develop and carry out original, independent research that complements the group's scientific interests. The specific direction will be shaped by the candidate's own interests and expertise. Possible research topics include:

• Characterizing exoplanet atmospheres through transmission or emission spectroscopy, atmospheric retrievals and modeling, JWST data analysis, or studies of stellar contamination.

• Detecting and characterizing low-mass planets through precision radial velocities, including RV data analysis, stellar activity mitigation, spectroscopic pipeline development, or 2ES instrumentation.

• Pursuing other closely related observational, theoretical, or computational questions that complement the group's research on exoplanets.

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated student to work at the cutting edge of the rapidly moving research field of exoplanets. Applicants with previous experience in the mentioned areas of research are especially encouraged to apply, and we particularly value scientific initiative and strong analytical skills. Flexibility and self-motivation are desired skills, and the Exoplanet Group encourages a vibrant collaborative work environment, where collaboration with other group members is highly encouraged. In your application, we encourage you to describe how you can complement the group's scientific activities.

You must have a two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to a two-year master's degree.

Approval and Enrolment 
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval, and the candidate will be enrolled in one of the general degree programmes at DTU. For information about our enrolment requirements and the general planning of the PhD study programme, please see DTU's rules for the PhD education. 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility.

Salary and appointment terms
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. Please see DTU’s salary structure for scientific staff: www.inside.dtu.dk/en/human-resources/during-employment/salary/salary-structures

The period of employment is 3 years. The starting date is flexible but would ideally commence in Q3-Q4 of 2027.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information and inquiries about the position can be made to Prof. Lars A. Buchhave (buchhave@space.dtu.dk) or Dr. Alexander Rathcke (rathcke@space.dtu.dk).

You can read more about the Exoplanet Group at www.exoplanets.dk and the DTU Space institute at www.space.dtu.dk. 

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark. Furthermore, you have the option of joining our monthly free seminar “PhD relocation to Denmark and startup “Zoom” seminar” for all questions regarding the practical matters of moving to Denmark and working as a PhD at DTU. 

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 22 January 2027 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
• Curriculum vitae 
• Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
• Research statement describing your previous work and thoughts and ideas for future research (max 3 pages)

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide 2-3 reference letters to be emailed at a later date.

You may apply prior to ob­tai­ning your master's degree but cannot begin before having received it. 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

About DTU Space
The DTU Space Institute has about 250 employees and is located in the greater Copenhagen area at the Lyngby Campus of the Technical University of Denmark. We link natural science closely with the development of new technology. DTU Space is involved in the full life cycle of space activities, including concept and design, construction and prototyping, calibration and validation, implementation and operations, data analysis, processing, dissemination, and applications, leading to new instruments and applications. With the specialised and refined technology available, we are getting more and more answers and further insight about the Earth and the universe surrounding us. We contribute to about 200 scientific publications a year.

DTU – For the benefit of society since 1829
DTU is one of Europe's leading elite technical universities. Through research and education at an international top level, we create solutions to the major societal challenges of our time and help secure Europe's global leadership in sustainable technological development. Since Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU almost 200 years ago, our mission has remained the same: We develop and create value through the natural and technical sciences for the benefit of society. DTU has 13,800 students, 1,600 PhD students, and 6,500 employees. We work in an international environment and have an inclusive, stimulating, and informal work culture. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland and collaborates with the best universities around the world.