4-Year PhD Position in Astroparticle Physics at UCM-GAE (CTAO / MAGIC)

The High Energy Physics Group (GAE) at the Institute of Particles and Cosmos Physics (IPARCOS) of the Complutense University of Madrid invites applications for a four-year pre-doctoral fellowship. This position offers an outstanding opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in experimental astroparticle and gamma-ray astrophysics within a leading international academic environment.

Why Join Us?
Joining GAE-UCM means becoming part of a leading research group with a proven track record of excellence and a vibrant international community. Key benefits include:
● Global Research Network: Work directly within premier international collaborations including CTAO, MAGIC, and Fermi-LAT.
● Cutting-Edge Technology: Gain hands-on experience in integrated electronics, ultra-fast trigger systems, silicon photo-sensors, and Machine Learning-based data analysis pipelines.
● Advanced Training: Access to international symposia, overseas exchange initiatives, and specialized on-site operational shifts at premier astronomical observatories (Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, La Palma).
● Career Success: Our alumni hold prominent positions at major research centers and thrive in high-tech industry sectors.

Research Project
The successful candidate will work on a combination of scientific and technical lines, contributing to some of the following research areas:
● Scientific Exploitation of CTAO-North First Light: As CTAO-North commences data acquisition in late 2026, the fellow will occupy a pivotal role in interpreting inaugural datasets characterized by unprecedented capabilities. This work will be complemented by the continued high-level analysis of MAGIC and Fermi-LAT data.
● Gamma-Ray Astrophysics & Dark Matter Phenomenology: Investigation into the physics of active galactic nuclei (AGN) and pulsars, alongside the execution of indirect searches for dark matter candidates.
● Computational Physics & Machine Learning: Development and deployment of sophisticated machine learning frameworks and novel algorithms to optimize the reconstruction of very-high-energy cosmic gamma rays.
● Instrumentation & Real-Time Systems: Optimization of high-speed trigger logic and complex data acquisition (DAQ) architectures for the next generation of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes.

Candidate Profile
● Academic Excellence: Applicants must possess a Master’s degree in Physics, Astrophysics or a related discipline prior to the commencement of the appointment.
● Technical Proficiency: A robust background in physics paired with strong programming capabilities in Python or C++. Demonstrated expertise in instrumentation or data analysis is particularly valued.
● Communication: Fluency in English is essential for navigating our international research environment.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application materials via email to info@gae.ucm.es specifying "PhD Fellowship Application – [Candidate Name]" in the subject line. A complete dossier must include:
● Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae.
● Academic Transcripts: Complete transcripts for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
● Motivation Letter: A concise statement outlining research interests and suitability for the position (maximum 1 page).
● References: Contact information for at least two academic referees.
The Complutense University of Madrid is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive research environment. We encourage applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds.

Application Deadline: September 20th, 2026
High Energy Physics Group
Institute of Particles and Cosmos Physics
Complutense University of Madrid
info@gae.ucm.es