Call for applications to doctoral programs 2026A in UST KASI School

Bigger dreams and education to Big science and technology!

Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI) School via the University of Science and Technology (UST) is offering doctoral (direct and integrated) scholarships starting in March 2026. PhD scholarships are provided with a competitive salary of about $1600 per month for the doctoral program. KASI is located in Daejeon, a high tech, educational and research oriented city. Convenient accommodation would be provided to students for the first 3 years in the campus.

KASI is actively involved in various fields of astronomy and astrophysics, from astronomical instrumentation to observation and theory, and participates in international collaborative and stand-alone projects including GMT, ALMA, SDSS4, DESI, LSST, KMTNet, and KVN. This semester KASI is accepting applications for the following research area:

• Cosmology I - supervisor: Prof. Sungwook E. Hong (swhong@kasi.re.kr)

• Cosmology II - supervisors: Prof. Arman Shafieloo (davidparkinson@kasi.re.kr) and Prof. Sang-Sung Lee (sslee@kasi.re.kr)

• Exoplanet Atmosphere & ISM/GCM - supervisor: Prof. Kwang-Il Seon (kiseon@kasi.re.kr)

• Space Weather – supervisor: Prof. Yukinaga Miyashita (miyasita@kasi.re.kr)

• Dust Astrophysics - supervisor: Prof. Thiem Hoang (thiemhoang@kasi.re.kr)

• High-mass Stars - supervisor: Prof. Kee-Tae Kim (ktkim@kasi.re.kr)

• Astronomical Instrumentations - supervisor: Prof. Jeong-Yeol Han (jhan@kasi.re.kr)

• Magnetic Fields in Binary Stars – supervisor: Prof. Hyosun Kim (hkim@kasi.re.kr)

and for the detailed description of the specific research topics, see the list attached or in our major homepage (https://www.kasi.re.kr/eng/pageView/140).

We encourage qualified international students to apply. Competent students with BSc degrees can apply for an integrated PhD program. Students with MSc degrees may apply directly to the PhD program.

Questions on each research area should be sent to each assigned professor, while other questions are sent to the Chief Major Professor (Sang-Sung Lee, sslee@kasi.re.kr). For more information of application, please see the UST web page (https://ust.ac.kr/admission_eng.do). Applications are considered only if they are submitted during September 22 to October 16 (17:00 KST). 

Best regards,

Sang-Sung Lee

Chief Major Professor

1. Prof. Sungwook E. Hong (swhong@kasi.re.kr)

This project is for a PhD or integrated PhD student.

Understanding Large-scale Structures of the Universe using Massive Cosmological Simulations and AI

To conduct cosmological research using next-generation large-scale surveys such as DESI, LSST, and SKA, it is essential to utilize hydrodynamic simulation data that cover volumes comparable to or larger than those of the surveys under various cosmological models. However, the volume of current global hydrodynamic simulations is significantly smaller than that of these upcoming surveys. In contrast, large-scale N-body simulations conducted by the Korean astronomy community have volumes comparable to those of the surveys, but they lack the detailed gas information necessary for target selection in these surveys, making direct application challenging. To overcome this limitation, global efforts are underway to apply artificial intelligence to large-scale simulations. This research aims to lead in this competitive field.

Development of Next-Generation Spectroscopic Survey Instruments and Cosmological Research

Participating in the instrumentation development for the A-SPEC spectroscopic observation project, which began in 2021 with the goal of creating a complete 3D map of the nearby accelerating universe. Based on observational data, this research conducts cosmological studies of the nearby universe. The long-term goal is to equip participating students with the capabilities to take leading roles in the planning and design phases of future science projects led by Korea.

Astrobiological Research in Galaxies and Large-Scale Structures of the Universe

The Goldilocks zone—regions suitable for complex life—has primarily been studied in the context of individual stellar systems. However, galaxies across the universe exhibit diverse stellar population distributions depending on their types and environments, leading to variations in the distribution of Goldilocks zones within each galaxy. This research first aims to study the distribution of Goldilocks zones in galaxies and cosmic large-scale structures through simulations, with the long-term goal of applying these findings to actual observational data.

2. Prof. Arman Shafieloo (shafieloo@kasi.re.kr),Prof. Sang-Sung Lee (sslee@kasi.re.kr)

This project is for a PhD or integrated PhD student.

We are looking for competent and enthusiastic PhD candidates to work on refining AGN-based distance ladder with improved accuracy and precision for cosmological applications. The project will be a collaboration between the radio group and cosmology group at KASI. Developing advanced statistical methods of data analysis (data mining, machine learning, artificial intelligence, regression approaches) will be a major part of the research during the PhD project or integrated-PhD. In addition, the project will include selecting radio VLBI monitoring data of high redshift (e.g., z=1-5) variable compact radio sources, constraining characteristic time scales of the variability of the sources, obtaining precise measurements of angular size of the variable regions, comparing the AGN-based distance estimates with those from the current cosmological models, etc. Depending on the capability of the candidates, they may proceed with improving the calibration methods of the AGN-based distance measurements.

3. Prof. Kwang-Il Seong (kiseon@kasi.re.kr)

This project is for a PhD or MSc student.

We are recruiting new master’s or doctoral students in the following two research areas. Students will have various numerical methodologies, theoretical backgrounds, observational data analysis techniques, and will apply these to analyze observaitonal data.

Exoplanetary Atmosphere

The exploration of exoplanets and the understanding exoplanetary atmospheres are pursuits of humanity’s ultimate questions and one of the most important topics in modern astronomy. The Astro2020 report released in the United States places the highest emphasis on the study of exoplanetary atmospheres, and almost all major astronomical instrument projects, whether ongoing or planned, proiritize the study of exoplanetary atmospheres as their primary research objective. Our team has conducted fundamental research over several years to understand the physical phenomena occurring in exoplanetary atmospheres and has studied models for detecting and analyzing the atmospheres of exoplanets, such as Hot Jupiters.

We are primarily seeking students who are interested in applying physical priciples to astrophysical phenomena and who have talent in computer programming. However, students interested in exoplanet observational research are also welcome.

Master’s student will conduct research analyzing H-alpha and He I absorption line observaitonal data by applying a one-dimensional model that combines p-winds, based on the Parker wind model, with cloudy. Ph.D. students will work on developing atmospheric escape models by modifying three-dimensional hydrodynamic models such as Athena, together with cloudy and the 3D code MOCASSIN. Ultimately, they will pursue reseach that connects the lower atmosphere near the exoplanet’s surface with the upper atmosphere. For those interested in observational research, both Master’s and Ph.D. students will analyze various molecular lines in the lower atmosphere using Bayesian methods, based on IGRINS observational studies. In addition, through the Ph.D. program, we aim to investigate the mechanmics by which Hot Jupiters are formed and their relation to the ice line.

Interstellar and Circumgalactic Medium

Understanding the formation and evolution of various star-forming galaxies, from the distant universe to the nearby universe, is an important topic in astronomy. In particular, strong outflows emitted from galaxies and inflows of material accreted from outside into galaxies play a crucial role in galactic evolution.

For the Master’s program, the research will focus on analyzing the spectral shapes as a function of distance in the Ly-alpha halo, assuming various models such as the spherical shell model and the accelerating halo model. The aim is to explore models that can explain the observed spectral variations with distance.

For the Ph.D. program, research will be carried out depending on the student’s interest among the following five topics: (1) Investigating the formation mechanisms of the very extended Ly-alpha emission observed around Lyman-Alpha emitters and quasars (whether it is emitted from gravitationally collapsing gas, or wether it originates from the central galaxy and is subsequently re-emitted through resonant scattering), (2) Studying the correlation between Lyman continuum escape fraction and relate phenomena, (3) Developing halo models of galaxies that can simultaneously explain emission or absorption lines of heavy elements such as Mg II, Si II, and C VI, (4) Studying the relationship between clumpiness of interstellar medium and spectra orginating from interstellar dust, and (5) Investigating sysmtematic errors in interstellar extinction measurements caused by spatial variations in interstellar dust temperature.

4. Prof. Yukinaga Miyashita (miyasita@kasi.re.kr) 

This project is for Ph.D or Integrated-Ph.D Course

In Center for Heliophysics Research, Division of Fundamental Astronomy and Space Science, we are looking for competent and enthusiastic PhD candidates to undertake research in the area of magnetospheric physics, space weather, and space plasma physics. A successful candidate will be involved in a project to study space weather (near-Earth space environment) and solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling, including onset and development mechanisms of space storms and substorms, and associated dynamic auroras. This project will involve analyzing various kinds of in situ and remote-sensing observation data from multiple spacecraft (e.g., MMS, THEMIS, ERG, and SNIPE) and ground-based instruments (e.g., auroral cameras, magnetometers, and radars). The student will learn a wide range of this research area and choose and find research topics related to storms, substorms, and/or other magnetospheric phenomena for their dissertation.

5. Prof. Thiem Hoang (thiemhoang@kasi.re.kr) 

The Role of Gravity and Magnetic Fields in the Formation of Stars, Planets, and Black Holes and their Impact on Interstellar/Circumgalactic Matter 

(Ph.D or Integrated-Ph.D Course)

We seek highly motivated candidates for 2 Ph.D or Integrated Ph.D positions in Theoretical Astrophysics at the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, under the supervision of Professor Thiem Hoang. The successful candidate will join our research group to investigate the role of gravity and magnetic fields in the formation of stars, planets, and black holes from interstellar matter (dust and gas); and to study the influence of stellar and black hole feedback on interstellar and circumgalactic matter.  The successful candidates will work on: (1) numerical modeling of dust emission/polarization, numerical simulations, and synthetic observations of polarization, and/or (2) data analysis and modeling of multiwavelength polarization data from different polarimetric instruments such as SOFIA/HAWC+, JCMT, ALMA, and future SKA. One position will focus on the interstellar medium and star/planet formation, while the other will focus on the interstellar medium and the growth and feedback of black holes. 

6. Prof. Kee-Tae Kim (ktkim@kasi.re.kr)

This project is for a PhD or integrated PhD student.

Investigating the formation conditions and mechanisms of high-mass stars:

High-mass (higher than 8 solar masses) stars are fundamental in the evolution of galaxies. However, their formation is still poorly understood. This is because they are rare and mostly located distant, they form in clusters in very high-extinction regions, and they form and evolve fast. It is under much debate whether high-mass stars form like low-mass stars. My group’s research focuses on the physical, chemical, dynamical, magnetic field properties of the clouds and cores forming high-mass stars and the characteristics of the disk-outflow systems around very young high-mass stars. We use single-dish radio telescopes (e.g., KVN 21m, JCMT) and radio interferometers (e.g., JVLA, ALMA). We already obtained high-sensitivity, high-angular resolution data for large samples of high-mass stars in formation using ALMA. We are undertaking both various statistical studies for the samples and detailed studies for several interesting sources/groups, together with international collaborators. We aim to investigate the condition, mechanism, and impact of high-mass star formation. We are looking for 1-2 highly motivated PhD or integrated PhD students for this project.

7. Prof. Jeong-Yeol Han (jhan@kasi.re.kr) 

This project is for a PhD or integrated PhD student.

 1) Research Overview 

  - Research on polishing and assembly alignment technology for the development of Astronomical space observation equipment

  - Research on optimal data analysis technology according to the characteristics of Astronomical space observation data

  - Research on optical system design and analysis for astronomical space telescopes

 2) Research Objectives

  - To understand the current status of large optical system mirror development technology for Astronomical application

  - To understand the development trend of advanced optical systems at home and abroad and have an outlook for mid- to long-term optical technology development

  - To understand the polishing technology of Astronomical space mirrors

  - To understand the Tool Influence Function (TIF) of mirrors

  - To understand the assembly and alignment procedures of telescopic optical systems and participate in the assembly and alignment process through analysis of assembly and alignment data

  - To participate in the assembly alignment process by analyzing assembly alignment data

  - Plan and analyze data collection for big data analysis in Astronomy and Space technology.

  - To understand the current status of optical polishing machine technology development of large optical systems for Astronomy and Space.

  - To understand the development trend of advanced optical systems at home and abroad and have a perspective on the development of optical technology in the medium and long term.

  - To understand the optical system design and analysis technology of large-scale optical system for Astronomy and Space and study advanced optical system technology and research advanced optical polishing machine technology

 3) Research Methods

  - To investigate the literature related to the development technology of large optical system mirrors for Astronomical and Space applications at home and abroad and share relevant knowledge through research meetings.

  - To secure research data related to the polishing technology of mirrors for Astronomical and Space applications, and to acquire sophisticated knowledge of the literature through regular publication of research papers.

  - To acquire sophisticated knowledge of the literature and to understand the novelty of research and development in the Astronomical field

  - To obtain and analyze the tool influence function of the mirror to optimize the polishing process

  - To hold regular and irregular meetings with the supervisor to discuss the research. 

  - To develop research capabilities through regular and irregular meetings with the supervisor to optimize the polishing process by obtaining and analyzing the tool influence functions of mirrors

  - To understand the assembly and alignment procedures of telescopic optical systems and the experience of assembly and alignment in existing  observatories

  - To develop new optical systems based on existing research data for polishing and alignment.

  - To develop and apply alignment algorithms that can be utilized in the development of new optical systems based on existing data.

  - To understand and decipher big data formats in the field of Astronomy and Space technology, and analyze the fusion information between data through data visualization. 

  - To analyze convergence information between data through data visualization and share research contents through regular team meetings.

  - To investigate the literature related to the development of large-scale optics for Astronomy and Space at home and abroad and share knowledge through research meetings and share relevant knowledge through research meetings.

  - To secure core research data in the field of optomechanics for large optical systems for Astronomy and Space, and acquire sophisticated knowledge of the literature through regular publications. 

  - To acquire sophisticated knowledge of references through regular publication of papers, and acquire specialized knowledge through domestic and foreign experts. 

  - To participate in optical and optomechanical design research in the field of telescopic optics to understand the techniques implemented in existing telescopes and apply new research methodologies.

  - To understand the technologies implemented in existing telescopes and apply new research methodologies to develop advanced telescopes.

 4) Expected Outcomes

  - To understand the domestic and international trends in the development of large-scale advanced reflective optical systems that can be applied to the Astronomical and Space fields.

  - To understand domestic and international trends in the development of large-scale advanced reflective optical systems that can be applied to the astronomical and space fields, and conduct research with global competitiveness. 

  - Develop new polishing technologies that can enhance national competitiveness and enable the assembly and alignment of increasingly diverse, large, and complex optical systems.

  - To understand domestic and international trends in large advanced telescope opto-mechanical technologies applicable to astronomy and space, and conduct globally competitive research.

  - It will enable optomechanical design for the development of increasingly diverse, large, and complex optical systems.

8. Prof. Hyosun Kim (hkim@kasi.re.kr)

This project is for a PhD or integrated PhD student.

 1) Research Overview: Just like human beings, stars are also “born,” evolve, and eventually reach the stage of “death” in what we call the life cycle of a star. Stars shine most beautifully in their old age. By studying the final stages—red giants and planetary nebulae, we aim to understand the life (evolutionary process) of stars, their “social lives” (interactions with other stars), and their influence on the next stellar generation (their physical and chemical roles in returning material to the interstellar medium). In particular, most planetary nebulae are observed to have asymmetric bipolar or multipolar structures, and we seek the origin of this asymmetry in the interactions with companion stars.

 2) Research Objectives: To understand how magnetic fields influence the spiral-shell structures and accretion disks formed around binary stars, and how these magnetic fields are themselves affected by the binary-induced structures.

 3) Research Methods: Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations and analysis of interferometric radio observations.

  - Performing MHD code validation tests (e.g., shock tube tests).

  - Examining the effects of introducing plane-parallel magnetic fields into (existed) circumbinary material models.

  - Examining the effects of introducing dipole magnetic fields at the center of mass of the system.

 - Investigating the driving mechanisms of magnetic fields at the surfaces of individual stars and examining their interactions.

 - Comparing simulation outcomes with polarization data from radio interferometry.

 4) Expected Outcomes: A deeper understanding of the role of magnetic fields in the evolution of aging binary stars.

This project is for a MSc student.

 1) Research Overview: Just like human beings, stars are also “born,” evolve, and eventually reach the stage of “death” in what we call the life cycle of a star. Stars shine most beautifully in their old age. By studying the final stages—red giants and planetary nebulae, we aim to understand the life (evolutionary process) of stars, their “social lives” (interactions with other stars), and their influence on the next stellar generation (their physical and chemical roles in returning material to the interstellar medium). In particular, most planetary nebulae are observed to have asymmetric bipolar or multipolar structures, and we seek the origin of this asymmetry in the interactions with companion stars.

2) Research Objectives: To understand how magnetic fields influence the spiral-shell structures and accretion disks formed around binary stars, and how these magnetic fields are themselves affected by the binary-induced structures.

3) Research Methods: Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations and analysis of interferometric radio observations. After performing MHD code validation tests (e.g., shock tube tests), examining the effects of introducing plane-parallel magnetic fields into (existed) circumbinary material models.

4) Expected Outcomes: A deeper understanding of the role of magnetic fields in the evolution of aging binary stars.