University of Zurich, Department of Physics
Position ID:
UZH-Department of Physics-PHD10 [#31027]
Position Title:
PhD student - experimental astroparticle physics
Position Location:
Zurich, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
Subject Area:
Appl Deadline:
2025/12/01 11:59PM
withdrawn (posted 2025/10/29, listed until 2026/04/29)
withdrawn (posted 2025/10/29, listed until 2026/04/29)Position Description:
Position Description
The group of Professor Soares-Santos, at the University of Zurich (UZH), invites applications for a PhD student position. The group is engaged in data analysis, instrumentation, software development, and operations in state-of-the-art experiments in the field of cosmology with cosmic surveys and gravitational waves. In addition to carrying out some of the most precise cosmological measurements from galaxy clustering and weak lensing, we have led the most comprehensive searches for the electromagnetic (EM) counterparts of gravitational-wave (GW) events and contributed to the first GW-EM multi-messenger discovery. We are currently leading a multi-messenger cosmology effort, combining GW standard sirens and galaxy catalogs while preparing for discovery of new signals such as the stochastic GW background and its cross-correlation with galaxies. At this time, we are seeking exceptional applicants interested in instrumentation science in addition to physics analysis. Thesis research may include developments for gravitational-wave experiments such as LIGO and the next-generation Einstein Telescope. Our lab is currently aiming to improve the discovery potential of GW observatories by improving the quantum efficiency and power-handling capabilities of photodiodes to be used in such interferometers. This R&D is closely related to our program on sensor characterization for cosmic surveys in optical and infrared wavelengths which may also be a thesis topic. Our group is also a member of the LISA Consortium. Candidates interested in contributing to any of these research threads are welcome to apply. The instrument science research, combined with physics analyses using state-of-the-art data, is expected to produce a high-impact thesis that will propel the PhD student towards their next career goals. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree, or expect to obtain one before their start date. While specific hardware experience is not required, a good understanding of the experimental methods and techniques used in the field is essential. The successful candidate is expected to have a combination of hard and soft skills, including statistical data analysis and programming in Python, the ability to work independently, self-motivation to go beyond existing experience, good written and oral communication in English, and the willingness to travel. To apply, please submit a cover letter, a research statement (3 pages max.), and a curriculum vitae via the application system. Also, to complete your application, please arrange for at least two letters of recommendation to be uploaded by the letter writers directly to that same system. Review of complete applications will start on December 1, 2025. Applications received after that date will be considered until the position is filled. We aim for a start date of April 1, 2026. This date can be adjusted by mutual agreement. For applicants from outside Switzerland or the EU, the application may be subject to approval from the immigration authorities, a process that takes up to three months. PhD positions are fully funded according to the Swiss National Science Foundation salary requirements, and typically last up to four years. Contact information: Professor Marcelle Soares-SantosApplication Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Academic Transcript
- Two reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )
And anything else requested in the position description.
Further Info:
Department of Physics
University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
CH-8057 Zurich
Switzerland
University of Zurich
Winterthurerstrasse 190
CH-8057 Zurich
Switzerland