This program aims to educate astronomers capable of conducting original and independent research, contributing to the advancement of the discipline through the publication of their findings in specialized journals. Considering that the Chilean territory will host approximately 70% of the world’s terrestrial astronomical infrastructure, there is a potential for the country to become a leader in this field.
With a strong focus on observational astrophysics, the doctoral program seeks to capitalize on this significant comparative advantage. It consists of an initial academic cycle, a candidacy examination, and a final thesis development cycle.
Accredited for three years, from December 2022 to December 2025.
Modality: On-campus
Location: Santiago
Schedule: Daytime
Accrediting Body: National Accreditation Commission CNA (Comisión Nacional de Acreditación)
Director of the PhD program: Paula Jofré
Contact/Academic Coordinator: Evelyn Johnston, [email protected]
Location: Avda. Ejército 441, Santiago Centro
Contact: [email protected] / (+56 2) 22130276
Website: astronomia.udp.cl
The program is academic in nature. The initial three-semester cycle includes three traditional courses, three research modules, and three seminar courses. It offers a total of 240 credits, including the thesis modules for the final cycle, which lasts five semesters. The class format is active, meaning participants are expected to engage in dialogue based on the materials provided.
Its research/development lines are Planetary Systems Astrophysics, Stellar and Galactic Astrophysics, and Extragalactic Astrophysics, which provide topics for the thesis leading to a doctoral degree.
The PhD students in Astrophysics at UDP will be able to develop original and independent research, contributing to the advancement of the discipline by publishing their results in specialized journals and conferences.
They will have a solid background in physical processes and their manifestation in astronomical phenomena, and the ability to learn new tools—such as observation techniques, data management, analysis methods, and numerical simulations—that will allow them to remain at the forefront of their specialty, be it planetary systems astrophysics, stellar and galactic astrophysics, or extragalactic astrophysics.
At the same time, they will have developed critical thinking skills and collaborative work capabilities, which will allow them to integrate into international research networks and operate in demanding and competitive academic and professional contexts. Thus, graduates of the UDP PhD in Astrophysics will be able to work in purely academic environments, such as universities, or in more technical settings, such as astronomical observatories.
The program is aimed at applicants with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in astronomy or related sciences who wish to further their studies to pursue a research career in astrophysics.
Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in astronomy or related sciences such as physics, planetary sciences, or others.
Have excellent grades in previous studies, experience in research projects, and a very high level of motivation for astronomy research.
Be proficient in English (reading comprehension is essential, and oral and written expression is highly desirable).
Be able to dedicate yourself full-time in person to the doctoral program.
