Location: The University of Texas at El paso, Department of Physics
Application deadline: January 15th, 2026
We invite applications for 2 Ph.D student positions in Astrophysics, specialised in areas related to star and planet formation, astrochemistry, and computational fluid dynamics.
The successful candidates will be working with Prof. Munan Gong at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). The group studies the formation of stars and planets with a focus on astrochemistry. We aim to understand the chemical evolution of star- and planet- forming molecular clouds, the origin of molecules that relate to the emergence of life in the universe, the evolution of young stellar and planetary systems as they interact with their formation environment, and the effect of star formation on the evolution of galaxies. We use theoretical and computational tools such as fluid dynamics simulations, chemical network modeling, high performance computing, and machine learning.
The Physics Department at the UTEP currently enrolls more than 120 graduate and undergraduate students. The department offers strong research programs in theoretical and computational astrophysics. Our Ph.D program has a vibrant, diverse, and international student population. We will be able to sponsor visa for international student applicants.
These will be funded positions with an expected duration of 3 years (with MS) to 5 years (with BS). Please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Munan Gong (mgong2@utep.edu) in case you have any questions about the position, the selection process, or the possible research projects. More information about the research group can be found at https://sites.google.com/view/munangong/home.
How to Apply:
Please apply via the UTEP graduate school website: https://www.utep.edu/science/physics/academic-programs/graduate/phd-program-in-physics.html, and indicate (e.g. in your personal statement) that you are interested in working with the astrophysics group of Prof. Munan Gong in your application.
Please also email a copy of your CV to Munan Gong (mgong2@utep.edu) and indicating you are interested in this Ph.D position upon the submission of your application. Note the application deadline is January 15th (NOT the one listed on the UTEP graduate school website). Late applications will only be considered if the positions are not filled yet.