Extrasolar planets science is one of the most dynamic and vibrant fields in modern astrophysics. With more than 5500 exoplanets discovered to date, we are beginning to understand statistical trends in the population and unravel the diversity of other worlds. State-of-the-art instruments on ground- and space-based telescopes provide access to the bulk properties of the exoplanets and shed light on their atmospheric compositions. Despite impressive progress in the field, one of the long-term goals of exoplanet science, that is the direct detection and atmospheric characterization of temperate terrestrial exoplanets similar to Earth, is out of reach for the current generation of instruments. Only the next generation of ground-based extremely large telescopes with 30-40 m primary mirrors and dedicated space missions will be powerful enough to address this goal.

One of these missions is the Large Interferometer For Exoplanets (LIFE). LIFE is a space-based nulling interferometer that will investigate the atmospheric properties of hundreds of exoplanets, including dozens similar to Earth. LIFE will operate at mid-infrared wavelengths and provide access to atmospheric absorption bands of many molecular species, including numerous so-called atmospheric biosignatures. Rooted at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, the LIFE project has supporters and contributors worldwide, and the science of LIFE has been recognized as a candidate topic for a future L-class mission in the Science Program of the European Space Agency.

In this project, you will work within the LIFE instrumentation team at ETH Zurich and play a leading role in the Nulling Interferometry Cryogenic Experiment (NICE), a dedicated testbed to demonstrate the measuring principle of the LIFE mission in a lab environment. NICE is the first and only lab experiment of its kind worldwide and is fundamentally important to demonstrate the feasibility of the LIFE mission. The goal of NICE is to show broadband nulling at mid-infrared wavelengths under cryogenic temperatures (15 K) and with flux levels comparable to the astronomical sources that LIFE will detect. Specifically, we seek to obtain a null depth of 10−5 (and stability of 10−8) while maintaining a high system throughput and, consequently, a high level of sensitivity sufficient to detect an Earth twin at 10 pc.

We have already set up a precursor experiment consisting of a single-Bracewell interferometer with closed-loop optical path-length control operating at ambient conditions. This setup has already demonstrated achromatic operation and closed-loop control to stabilize the null. In parallel, we have started working towards the cryogenic implementation of the experiment. Due to nulling interferometry’s extreme alignment sensitivity, it is critical that we develop and implement a strategy to ensure that a deep null can be achieved after the experiment is cooled down. Hence, our current work is mostly focused on cryogenic testing at the component and subsystem level using a small test cryostat to see how various materials and mounting techniques will impact the alignment of the experiment. Through iterating and trading the choice of materials, mounting options, and alignment strategies, we hope to begin with the design and construction of the full NICE experiment within the next year, in which this position will play a central role.

We are looking for someone who

• has a PhD degree in astronomical instrumentation, experimental physics, or a similar discipline by the starting date
• has significant experience in experimental / laboratory work ideally in the context of optics, cryogenics, interferometry, and/or astronomical instruments
• is eager to achieve ambitious goals as a member of a larger team
• is willing to take responsibility and work independently in a goal-oriented manner  
• has a high proficiency in English and is a good and efficient communicator
• has good computer and programming skills

Previous experience with infrared optics and infrared detectors and/or experience with nulling interferometry is an asset.

We offer a dynamic, challenging role within an inspiring environment at a world-renowned university. Career development is central to our culture, and we’re committed to supporting your professional growth. Potdoctoral fellows at ETH Zurich earn competitive salaries and are eligible for both social security and retirement benefits. The initial appointment is for 2 years (including a 3 months probation period), but can be extended up to 6 years depending on performance and progress. Funding for attending international conferences is available and potential publication costs will be covered.  

ETH Zurich is regularly rated as the best university in continental Europe and Zurich itself is one of the most attractive cities to live in worldwide. Many people at ETH Zurich, and within our research group, have an international background. English is the common language in our research group. 

Our group actively participates in the ETH Centre for Origin and Prevalence of Life (COPL) and the National Centre of Competence in Research PlanetS providing group members with ample opportunity for networking in interdisciplinary settings.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Complete applications received by December 13, 2024 will receive full consideration. The position is open to candidates from all countries. The starting date is negotiable, but the position is available immediately. 

We look forward to receiving your application, as a single PDF, including:

• curriculum vitae incl. publication list and contact information of at least three referees
• a short statement of major achievements (does not have to be work related; 1 page max) 
• a brief motivational statement of research interests and experience (3 pages max)
• MSc and PhD degree certificate and transcript (if already available)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Further information about our research group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Adrian Glauser, e-mail: glauser@phys.ethz.ch , or Prof. Dr. Sascha Quanz, e-mail: quanzs@phys.ethz.ch.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.