Astronomy and Astrophysics (Physics and Astronomy) University of Amsterdam

Overview

The dynamic field of astronomy and astrophysics is currently gaining importance worldwide. New generations of instruments - situated on the earth's surface and in space - enable us to study the origin, structure and evolution of planets, stars, star systems, and the universe in a more profound way than ever before.

What does Astronomy and Astrophysics in Amsterdam have to offer me?

The Physics and Astronomy - Astronomy and Astrophysics programme of the University of Amsterdam  is firmly embedded in the Astronomical Institute Anton Pannekoek, which has a long track record of world leading research in both observational astronomy and theoretical astrophysics. Researchers of the institute are well-positioned to train you in both the observational and theoretical aspects of modern astronomy and astrophysics, and to teach on current international research topics, such as:

• X-ray binaries and compact objects

• Gamma ray bursts and radio transients

• Advanced instrumentation

• Planet and star formation

You will be able to make use of a wide range of tools - both in theory and application - to define the properties of astrophysical objects, and to identify the fundamental laws that govern their behaviour. Among these tools are:

• Supercomputers (the faculty campus houses the premier data and computing hub of The Netherlands)

• Ground-based telescopes, operating at wavelengths from radio to optical (such as ESO's VLT and the new LOFAR)

• Space observatories (such as Hubble, Chandra, XMM, Swift, Herschel, GLAST)