We are seeking a motivated M.Sc. student to join the nuclear astrophysics group at Saint Mary's University, starting in September 2027.

Our group investigates how nuclear reactions shape the production of elements in stars and stellar explosions. We combine experiments with stable and radioactive ion beams, nuclear reaction modelling, computational nucleosynthesis and astronomical observations to understand environments such as supernovae and classical novae.

Research opportunities

The successful candidate will be able to contribute to projects in several areas, including:

• Experimental nuclear astrophysics: Connecting nucleosynthesis models to measurements of astrophysically important nuclear reactions, including experiments at facilities such as TRIUMF (Canada), Argonne National Laboratory (USA), and RIKEN (Japan).
• Nuclear reaction rates and uncertainties: Studying how uncertainties in nuclear properties affect astrophysical nucleosynthesis predictions and identifying priorities for future experimental campaigns.
• Nucleosynthesis in stellar explosions: Modelling the production of heavy elements in supernovae and neutrino-driven outflows, and investigating the origin of abundance patterns observed in metal-poor stars.
• Presolar grains and stellar nucleosynthesis: Using isotopic signatures preserved in stardust grains to investigate the conditions and nuclear reactions responsible for element production.

Projects will be developed in consultation with the successful candidate, taking into account their interests and background.

What we are looking for

Applicants should have, or be completing, a B.Sc. in Physics, Astrophysics or a related discipline, and meet the admission requirements for the M.Sc. programs in Astronomy or Applied Science at Saint Mary's University (minimum GPA of 3.00/4.3).

Experience with scientific programming or computational physics is an asset, but previous experience in nuclear astrophysics is not required. We are particularly interested in students who enjoy combining different areas of physics, are curious about the connection between nuclear reactions and astronomical observations and are motivated to develop their computational and research skills.

Funding and environment

The position offers an annual funding package of $35,000 before tuition and fees, consisting of research funding and teaching assistantship support through Saint Mary's University. Additional funding may be available through competitive scholarships, including the NSERC Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Master's (CGRS M).

The student will join an active and collaborative research group, with opportunities to work with researchers at Canadian and international institutions and participate in experimental nuclear astrophysics collaborations.

How to apply

Interested students are encouraged to contact Thanassis Psaltis (Assistant Professor, Department of Astronomy and Physics, Saint Mary's University) at thanassis.psaltis@smu.ca with:

• a brief introduction and description of their research interests,
• a CV, and
• an unofficial undergraduate transcript.

Please include M.Sc. Nuclear Astrophysics in the subject line.

Applications will be considered until the position is filled, but expressions of interest received by November 15, 2026 will receive full consideration. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are also encouraged to apply for the NSERC Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Master's (CGRS M), which can provide additional funding for one year. The application deadline is December 1, 2026.

More information about our research: https://psaltisa.github.io/projects