Two PhD Positions in Extragalactic Astrophysics and AI Foundation Models for Scientific Discovery

We invite applications for two fully funded PhD positions in extragalactic astrophysics within the FUNDIS (Foundation Models for Scientific Discovery) project at the University of Geneva. FUNDIS is a multidisciplinary initiative developing the next generation of AI methods for scientific discovery by combining modern foundation models with domain sciences.

About the role

The two astrophysics PhD students will work at the Department of Astronomy at the University of Geneva, embedded in an outstanding multidisciplinary research environment through the FUNDIS initiative and the new AI Science Center (AISC) of the Faculty of Sciences.

• One project will develop AI methods for reconstruction, source detection, and classification in radio astronomy and multi-wavelength data, targeting distant galaxies with SKA precursor data (MeerKAT+) in preparation for the SKA.
• The second will develop and apply foundation-model approaches to JWST and Euclid observations, together with simulation-based inference, to study early galaxy formation and observational cosmology.

The students will have access to local computing resources and a cohort of PhD students working on foundation models across different science topics.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in physics, astronomy, or a closely related field (completed or to be completed before the start date).
• Solid programming experience.
• Background in machine learning or AI (preferable).

Benefits

• Four-year funding.
• Very competitive gross annual salary.
• Standard Swiss social security, accident insurance, and pension contributions.

Schedule

Expected start date in January 2027 (flexible).

Application details

Applications should include the following documents:

• Motivation Statement (PDF, 1–2 pages): addressing motivation, preferred research topics, career goals, scientific interests, why this programme, and which scientific problems you would most like to solve.
• Curriculum Vitae (PDF).
• Research Statement (PDF, 1–2 pages): addressing past research experience, ML/software projects, publications (if any), and future research interests.
• Academic transcripts.
• Degree certificate(s) (if available).
• English language certificate (if applicable).

Recommendation letters are not required at this stage, but please include up to 3 (minimum 2) references in your CV. Shortlisted candidates may be asked to provide recommendation letters later.

Applications received before August 31, 2026, will receive full consideration, but the call remains open until the positions are filled.

Preliminary inquiries about the astrophysics positions may be addressed to daniel.schaerer@unige.ch and pascal.oesch@unige.ch.