Elevate Your PhD Experience with a Studentship at the European Southern Observatory (ESO)!

Are you a PhD student looking to immerse yourself in one of the world's most dynamic scientific environments? The ESO Research Studentship Programme offers an unparalleled opportunity to join the vibrant community of one of the leading observatories on the planet for up to two years.

Why ESO? ESO is Europe’s premier intergovernmental astronomy organization, home to approximately 110 staff astronomers, 40 Fellows, and 40 PhD students. Our team conducts cutting-edge research across a broad range of fields, from exoplanets to cosmology, in a collaborative and stimulating setting that’s hard to match.

Who Can Apply? We welcome applications from students enrolled in PhD programmes in astronomy or related scientific fields. As an ESO student, you will work on your doctoral project under the guidance of your home university supervisor while benefiting from the co-supervision of an ESO staff astronomer. You will spend a minimum of six months in Chile or one year in Germany, with a maximum stay of two years. Positions are available at ESO’s headquarters in Garching, near Munich (Germany) and in Santiago (Chile), with special opportunities for students from Chilean universities.

Ready to Apply? If you are eager to enhance your PhD journey with an extended stay at ESO, visit ESO Studentship Employment Conditions for details on employment conditions and benefits.

Apply online at ESO Recruitment.

Deadline: 20 April 2026. Applications will be reviewed as soon as the deadline passes.