We invite applications for a 4-year Ph.D. position in time-domain astronomy at the Institute of Cosmos Sciences at the University of Barcelona (ICCUB), Spain. The Ph.D student will join the research group led by Dr. Nadejda Blagorodnova, funded by the European Research Council (ERC) Project CET-3PO.

The group research will focus on the study of the common envelope phase in massive binaries with observations of luminous red novae (LRNe) transients, their progenitor systems, and their precursor emission. The student will work with the large transient surveys of BlackGEM, LSST, and ZTF, and lead the multi-wavelength observational study of LRNe, and the modelling of their massive binary progenitors using detailed evolutionary codes. As a member of the research group, the student will have privileged access to data and observational resources from the BlackGEM survey partnership, and will be involved in the large international collaborations of Transients and Variable Stars Science Collaboration (LSST), and ZTF.

An MSc in astronomy or related field is required. Positions can start as early as October 2022, but no later than January 2023. The remuneration includes full benefits, and includes a generous research and travel allowance.

The application should be in English, and must include the following:

• CV
• A motivation letter where you introduce yourself, describe your motivation for applying, your previous experience of relevance for the position (e.g. education, thesis work or other research activities), and your research interest and future goals (max 3 pages).

The applications need to be sent by June 15th, 2022 to cet3po@gmail.com. The review process will start immediately, but applications will be considered until the position is filled.

We regard diversity as an asset within a team, and welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The ICCUB is an interdisciplinary center hosting a vibrant fundamental research program in cosmology, astrophysics and particle physics, with a strong technology unit supporting our participation in international collaborations in observational astronomy and experimental particle physics.

The ICCUB is located in Barcelona, considered the 8th World's Best Cities 2021: one with near-perfect weather year-round, miles and miles of beaches, iconic parks, striking architecture and colourful neighbourhoods that march to their own beat—artistic, sophisticated, bohemian. Moreover, it is a pole of attraction for the technology sector, a top choice to establish a company in this sector, and it hosts some of the world's major technological events, such as the Mobile World Congress and the Smart City Expo. In addition, Barcelona and its metropolitan area is a leading destination on the map of global technological ecosystems and has infrastructures such as science parks, universities and the 22@ district.