Our MPIA astrochemistry group is a part of the Initial Training Network (ITN) that brings together Europe's leading research groups engaged in the study of one of the most topical areas of modern astronomical research - the role of the gas-grain interaction in the evolution of the Universe - combining with 7 micro, small and medium- sized enterprises (MSME) from across Europe to provide a unique interdisciplinary and intersectorial training environment. The ITN's members have an outstanding track record in training both Early Stage Researchers (ESRs) and Experienced Researchers (ERs) in a wide variety of skills and knowledge transfer covering both fundamental and applied physical sciences. A more detailed description of the "LASSIE" network and research goals is available.
The LASSIE PhD project at MPIA is devoted to detailed study of isotopic fractionation and chemical evolution in protoplanetary disks with grain growth. The PhD position was advertised at MPIA's web page and AAS job web site and is filled in by Tobias Albertsson since September 2010. The outline of the proposed research projects of this project is summarized here.