Thank you for your interest in pursuing a PhD position at Leiden Observatory. We expect to publish our call for PhD applications around mid October.
Leiden Observatory ("Sterrewacht Leiden"), founded in 1633, is the oldest university astronomy department in the world with a distinguished history. The work of famous astronomers such as De Sitter, Hertzsprung, Oort, Blaauw, and Van de Hulst made Leiden an internationally renowned center of astronomical research.
PhD students from Leiden succeed exceptionally well on the international job market. One of the most prestigious fellowships in world astronomy is NASA's Hubble fellowship. More astronomers with a doctoral degree from Leiden have won Hubble fellowships than from any other university outside the USA. Many of the faculty members, PhD students, and undergraduates have an international background. English is the common language.
In addition, Leiden University also maintains a site with practical information about studying in the Netherlands as well as a general page with information on obtaining a PhD.
Graduate Students are members of the graduate school of science.