The project team consists of a promoter, Dr M. Vergote as LPP-ERM/KMS director, and a senior researcher, Dr F. Louche.
The technologies and methods used are general scientific research, supported by modern simulation methods for the calculations.
The deliverables of the first two phases (a & b) of this project are to have at least one numerical code. The code will have to be benchmarked against existing tools and used on some reference set a of plasma parameters relevant to existing experiments. Also, a manual for running the codes will be written.
Eventually this project could lead to the earning of PhD degree in plasma physics.
MAIN TASKS
Perform research activities in the frame of the study project, mainly focused on the development and validation of RF wave propagation and absorption codes in 3D geometries.
- Report the progress results to the promoter and research team in English
- Report the obtained results at international conferences and write scientific papers in English
- Write a thesis for the obtention of a PhD degree, if agreed
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Degree(s) required: Master Degree in Physics, ideally obtained in theoretic physics and/or computational physics
This position is open for junior profiles (ideally 0-3 years of experience) . Candidates looking for a PhD position are encouraged to apply.
¿MUST HAVE¿ skills:
- Training or experience in scientific programming (e.g. Python, C++, Fortran,...)
- Training or experience in mathematical methods of physics
Knowledge of fundamental plasma physics
¿NICE TO HAVE¿ skills:
- Training or experience in Finite Element Modelling
- Training or experience in iterative solving of large systems of nonlinearly coupled equations
- Knowledge in RF physics and kinetic equations of magnetised plasmas
Personal skills:
- You conduct scientific research in an independent and upright way within a multidisciplinary environment.
- You think in an innovative and creative way.
- You communicate your results in a clear, concise and precise manner.
- You take initiative.
- You behave in a respectful way toward the others, their ideas and opinions as well as toward procedures and instructions.
Other skills:
- The applicant shall have good knowledge of English (oral / written).
- Minimum knowledge of French or Dutch is an added value for collaboration with peers.
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS
- The researcher may be exposed to classified information and will therefore have to obtain the required security clearance. The candidate must consent with the background check required to obtain this clearance, which will be executed by Belgian Defense.
- Working for the Patrimony requires living in Belgium for the duration of the study.
CONTRACT
- Probable date of recruitment: From 01/09/2026, in consultation with the applicant.
- Status: Full-time employment based on an open-ended contract with the Patrimony of the Royal Military Academy (you will not be a civil servant).
Please note that your contract will be open-ended, but the financing of the contract will be tied to the funding project, which is guaranteed until 2030. The financing of your contract beyond that period is therefore not 100% guaranteed. However, the Patrimony has a policy to keep the good elements on board and the research focus of this job offer fits within our core research activities, so there is a high chance that we will be able to offer you follow-up projects beyond that date if you decide to stay.
- Wage scale: Salary scale: wage scale NA11 (holder of a Master's degree in Science or equivalent). A salary simulation can be done here: Simulateur de salaire. RMA applies a merit-based research career track, allowing researchers to advance in wage scale based upon annual evaluations.
Holiday pay.
EXTRA LEGAL BENEFITS
- Possibility to benefit from a bilingualism allowance (Dutch/French) following a SELOR test;
- End-of-year bonus;
- Free DKV hospitalization insurance. Possibility of additional affiliation for one or more persons living under the same roof: spouse, child(ren) (50% of the price per additional member);
- Bike allowance / Free public transport (home-work commute);
- Meal vouchers (6€ / day);
- Digital allowance: 15€ / month;
- Free access to campus sports facilities outside working hours;
- On-campus restaurant and cafeteria with democratic prices (discount on the daily menu);
- Flexible working hours within the 38-hour week;
- Teleworking possible with allowance (2 days / week max);
- Holidays:
- 29 days holiday / year from the 1st year of contract (then from 45 years: +1 day holiday every 5 years)
- 1 week OFF every year between Christmas and New year's Eve (independent of the annual balance of holidays).
- Advantages and interesting offers thanks to the Benefits@work card (discounts, vouchers...);
- Entitlement to services offered by the `Office Central d'Action Sociale et Culturelle de la Défense' (OCASC): among others holiday centres, discount on travel organised by the tour operator...;
- Possibility to benefit from the nursery funded by Belgian Defence (subject to availability).
WORKPLACE
Royal Military Academy, Avenue de la Renaissance 30, 1000 Brussels. Occasional travels abroad for scientific conferences, etc.