MAD Workshop is an excellent opportunity to connect with collegues involved in the development of advanced materials for gravitational wave detectors as well as with researchers from crystal growth community and industry who share a deep interest in the topic. Together we will discuss recent achievements and challenges in material research and outline prospects for future cooperation. We are confident that face-to-face workshops with a lot of space for personal interaction and individual meetings will contribute to achieving our common goals.
Multi-messenger lensing at Lorentz Center, October 19-23, 2026
We are happy to announce that registration is now open for the workshop "Gravitational Lensing in the era of Multi-Messenger Astronomy” taking place at the Lorentz Center, Leiden in October 19 - 23, 2026. Please register by September 6, 2026, with this form.
This workshop aims to catalyze the emerging field of multi-messenger gravitational lensing—a transformative approach to observing the distant Universe through the combined signals of gravitational waves, neutrinos, and electromagnetic messengers from gravitationally lensed transient events. The scientific motivation lies in the potential for such lensing events to unlock new insights into cataclysmic cosmic phenomena, from kilonovae, supernovae and gamma-ray bursts to binary neutron star mergers, offering a deeper understanding of astrophysics, cosmology, and fundamental physics. Through highly interactive sessions, the workshop will identify research priorities, foster coordination among facilities, and establish a roadmap for future work to enable the first detection of a gravitationally lensed multi-messenger event.
Confirmed participants include:
- Nikki Arendse
- Tessa Baker
- Liang Dai
- Daniel Holz
- Andrew Levan
- Matt Nicholl
- Inés Pastor Marazuela
- Antonia Rowlinson
- Miguel Zumalacárregui
More information at https://www.lorentzcenter.nl/multi-messenger-lensing-program.html
Best wishes from the organizers,
Jose M. Ezquiaga, Anupreeta More, Samaya Nissanke and Graham Smith
Postdoctoral fellowships in AI for gravitational waves at the National University of Singapore
Applications are invited for a number of postdoctoral research fellowships in the Department of Physics and the Department of Statistics and Data Science at the National University of Singapore (NUS). Successful candidates will contribute to a Singapore National Research Foundation (NRF)-funded research programme on artificial intelligence for gravitational-wave astronomy, based at NRF's Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise, and supervised by a team of PIs at NUS: Alvin Chua, Li Cheng, Alexandre Thiery and David Nott. Application close October 31st 2026.
We seek applicants with strong expertise in scientific analysis for gravitational-wave astronomy and/or statistical machine learning for science. Those with a more general background in applied mathematics, statistics, data science or computational science will also be considered. Relevant areas of expertise can include (but are not limited to) topics such as surrogate modelling, representation learning, self-supervised learning, Bayesian optimisation, Gaussian processes, Monte Carlo methods, reinforcement learning, simulation-based inference, and model misspecification.
The ideal candidates for these positions will possess skills and interests in both theoretical and computational research, a willingness to diversify their expertise and to be involved in cross-disciplinary projects, as well as the disposition to work well independently and as part of a team.
The initial appointment is for one year, with expected renewal up to two or three years in total, and could start as early as March 2027. Each position comes with a competitive salary and personal benefits, as well as travel support for international conferences/visits. There will also be opportunities for successful candidates to gain additional experience in supervising research students during their appointment.
Applicants should submit the following materials via e-mail to ai4gw.nus(at)gmail.com: a cover letter, their CV and list of publications, a short statement of research, and the e-mail addresses of three academic referees who will provide letters of reference. All materials should be received by 31 October 2026 for full consideration.
Multiple open positions (including Group Leader) at the DZA
The newly founded German Centre for Astrophysics (DZA) is seeking to appoint a wide range of scientific staff to launch the new Centre. From technician posts, to PhDs, to post-docs, to group leader positions.
In particular the group leader position for GWD silicon technologies development should be highlighted as a special opportunity to lead your own group within a newly founded and well funded Centre of Astrophysics. Deadline for this position is September 30th 2026.
Please find here details.
Head of Silicon Technologies (f/m/d) at German Centre for Astrophysics (DZA)
At the earliest possible date, we are seeking to fill the following position on an initial fixed-term contract of two years (in accordance with Section 14 (2) of the German Part-Time and Fixed-Term Employment Act (TzBfG)):
Head of Silicon Technologies (f/m/d)
Strategic Development of Key Technologies for Next-Generation Gravitational-Wave Detectors
(Up to Pay Grade E15 TVöD Bund, depending on personal qualifications.)
Deadline for this position is September 30th 2026.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Strategic establishment and scientific-technical leadership of the Silicon Technologies division, including the development of a technology roadmap for ultra-high-purity silicon substrates and mirror systems for cryogenic operation, bonding technologies, and vacuum- and cryogenic-compatible integration and characterization methods.
- Scientific evaluation of technological approaches with respect to thermal and mechanical stability, optical losses, long-term reliability, and scalability, as well as identification of future key technologies.
- Scientific and technical coordination of activities related to material selection, bonding technologies, surface and bulk characterization, and the scientific requirements for future mirror and test-mass systems.
- Planning and coordination of scientific research and development programmes in the field of silicon technologies.
- Strategic planning and prioritization of future laboratory, vacuum, cryogenic, and precision measurement infrastructures.
- Contributing to the establishment of experimental laboratories and technology environments.
- Technical leadership and development of an interdisciplinary team, including the supervision and mentoring of PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers.
- Establishment and management of national and international research collaborations, including the acquisition and leadership of externally funded research projects.
- Representing the DZA in international networks and consortia, as well as publishing and presenting research results at international conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.
YOUR PROFILE:
- Completed university degree and PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Surface Science, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- Extensive research experience in several of the following fields: Silicon technologies, Interferometric gravitational-wave detection, Materials and surface science, Bonding technologies, Precision optics, Cryogenic and vacuum technologies, Precision measurement technologies
- Proven experience in leading complex scientific research or technology programmes and in the scientific management of research teams.
- International scientific visibility and networking demonstrated through publications, invited presentations, leadership roles, and experience in acquiring and coordinating third-party funded projects.
- Experience in establishing new scientific structures, research fields, or research programmes.
- Hands-on experience in experimental research within laboratory or technology environments.
- Excellent command of English. Willingness to acquire German language skills (minimum CEFR Level B1) within the first two years of employment.
- Desirable: Experience with ultra-precision optical or cryogenic systems, or in establishing new research groups.
WE OFFER:
- The opportunity to help build Germany’s largest research centre for astrophysics.
- Active participation in shaping the structural transformation of the Lusatia region through a scientifically and socially significant project.
- Extensive opportunities to shape innovative personnel and organisational structures in support of pioneering research.
- A highly motivated, international, and interdisciplinary working environment with renowned experts from academia and industry.
- Remuneration according to TVöD Bund, including the annual special payment and the attractive benefits and social security provisions of the German public sector.
- A strong commitment to work-life balance, including flexible working hours and opportunities for part-time employment.
The DZA is committed to increasing the representation of women in science and leadership positions and therefore expressly encourages women to apply. Applications from persons with severe disabilities and those with equivalent status under German Social Code IX (SGB IX) are particularly welcome. Where candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given to applicants with severe disabilities or equivalent legal status.
Please submit your application by 30.09.2026 via our online application portal. Your application should include: cover letter, detailed curriculum vitae, copies of relevant certificates and degree documents, earliest possible starting date. Please quote the reference number T02-26-01a when submitting your application.
Please find here full details.
ESA – Archival Research Visitor Programme
To increase the scientific return from its space science missions, ESA welcomes applications from scientists interested in pursuing research based on publicly available data in the ESA Space Science Archives. The Archives host data from all current and past ESA space science missions in astronomy, planetary science, and heliophysics.
The ESA Archival Research Visitor Programme is open to scientists at all career levels who are affiliated with institutes in ESA Member States and Cooperating States (note that all visits must comply with the ESA Security Directives, which may necessitate additional checks). Early-career scientists are particularly encouraged to apply, including PhD students (see below). We encourage applications from women and minorities. The peer-review evaluation process is anonymised to ensure equal opportunities for all applicants.
Residence lasts typically between one and three months, also distributed over multiple visits, depending on the complexity of the research project. The research projects can be carried out at ESAC (Madrid, Spain) and at ESTEC (Noordwijk, Netherlands). To offset the expenses incurred by visitors, ESA covers travel costs from and to the home institution and provides support for lodging expenses and meals.
During their stay, visiting scientists have the opportunity to interact with archive and mission specialists for questions on the retrieval, calibration, and analysis of archival data. In principle, all areas of space research covered by ESA science missions can be supported (the data must be publicly available in the archives). To ensure that technical expertise in the specific area of interest is available at ESAC or ESTEC, applicants should consult the table of expertise and contact the relevant scientists in their field of interest (this is very important). In case of doubts, write to the programme coordinators for assistance at arvp(at)cosmos.esa.int.
The next deadline for applications is Saturday 31 October 2026, 23:59 UTC
Please find here full details.
RESCEU-NBIA workshop on gravitational-wave sources 2026, November 25 – December 4, in Tokyo
The workshop will focus on compact object binaries ranging from stellar mass objects to supermassive black holes. The workshop aims to discuss our current understanding of gravitational-wave sources based on the previous gravitational-wave and electromagnetic observations and what we will be able to learn from future observations. Topics to be considered at the workshop include: Dynamical channel of binary black hole formation Binary stellar evolution/population Binary black holes in AGNs Intermediate - supermassive binary black holes Electromagnetic signatures of compact binaries Gravitational-wave data analysis The workshop is hosted by the Research Center for the Early Universe at University of Tokyo.
Participation and Program
All participants are requested to register by filling out the “Registration” form via the menu on the left of this page. Participants interested in contributing with a talk must also submit an abstract by filling out the “Title of talk” and “Abstract”, in the registration form. The workshop can accept a limited number of participants due to the capacity of the room. In order to receive full consideration, all information must be received by September 15th, 2026. The acceptance of the workshop will be given by September 25th, 2026.
We plan to focus on invited and contribution talks in the first week. In the second week, we will have a small number of talks and a large fraction of time will be devoted to open discussion.
Venue
The workshop will take place at Science building No. 1 in the Hongo campus of University of Tokyo.
Registration fee
The registration fee is 5000 JPY (~33 USD, 30 EUR). The cost of workshop dinner is 7,000 JPY. The payment method will be annouced later to the accepted participants.
Workshop Dinners
To be determined.
Accommodation
We recommend any business hotel in the Hongo or Ueno area. For example, APA Hotel Keisei Ueno-Ekimae is a business hotel at a walkable distance from UTokyo, just across the Ueno park. Other APA hotels are also nearby (Ueno Eki Minami, Ueno Ekimae, Shin Okachimachi Ekimae). There are many other hotels in the Ueno area.
If you want to stay farther away from the university, commuting by metro is also an easy option. The Hongo campus is well connected to the Marunouchi and Oedo lines (Hongo Sanchome station), the Namboku line (Todaimae st.) and the Chiyoda line (Nezu st.).
For using local transportation, we recommend buying a rechargeable Pasmo (or Suica) card.
Invited Speakers
- Pau Amaro Seoane (Polytechnic University of Valencia)*
- Clement Bonnerot (U of Birmingham)
- Alexander Dittmann (IAS)
- Kohei Inayoshi (KIAA)
- Maximiliano Isi (Columbia)
- Dong Lai (TDLI)
- Wenbin Lu (UCB)
- Andrew MacFadyen (NYU)
- Lucio Mayer (UZH)
- Ehud Nakar (Tel Aviv)
- Smadar Naoz (UCLA)
- Matt Nicholl (Queen’s University Belfast)
- Samaya Nissanke (DESY)
- Re’em Sari (Hebrew U)
- Ataru Tanikawa (Fukui Prefectural U)
- and more (* to be confirmed)
Organizers
- Kenta Hotokezaka, University of Tokyo
- Daniel D’Orazio, Space Telescope Science Institute
- Martin Pessah, Niels Bohr Institute
- Johan Samsing, Niels Bohr Institute
- Soichiro Morisaki, University of Tokyo
- Masaki Ando, University of Tokyo
- Tomoya Kinugawa, Shinshu University
Contact
- Workshop LOC < resceu-nbia-2026-group at g.ecc.u-tokyo.ac.jp >
We gratefully acknowledge the support by the Research Center for the Early Universe at University of Tokyo, the JST FOREST Program (JPMJFR2136) and the JSPS Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (23H01169, 23H04900).
After the Avalanche: Astrophysical Lessons from the fourth GW observing run, February 22-26, 2027 in Sexten
How binary black holes and neutron stars form and merge is the central question in gravitational-wave astrophysics. A decade after the first direct detection of a binary black hole merger, it remains unclear which gravitational-wave events probe the evolution of isolated massive binary stars, the dynamics of dense environments like star clusters, and active galactic nuclei, or more exotic pathways. One of the main hurdles has been the low-number statistics that prevented statistically robust identification of sub-populations within the observed population of gravitational-waves.
With the full O4 catalogue expected by the end of 2026, the sample is set to grow to several hundred events, ushering gravitational-wave astronomy into a new era of precision population inference. For the first time, this enables robust multi-parameter analyses (masses, spins, eccentricities, and their correlations) which are crucial for breaking the degeneracies that currently prevent us from deciphering the astrophysical origin of compact-object mergers.
The recent O4a and O4b releases have already prompted several interesting (and sometimes competing) claims about the origins of binary black hole subpopulations, including evidence for hierarchical mergers, features associated with the supernova-remnant mass function, and imprints of isolated binary and triple-star evolution. Many of these results remain only partially supported. In parallel, EM observations from (like the Gaia DR4 release) are substantially expanding the sample of dormant compact objects in binaries with luminous companions, providing essential context for interpreting gravitational-wave events.
Taking place just a few weeks after the planned full O4 data release, the workshop will be a timely opportunity to discuss the wealth of new results from the enlarged gravitational-wave catalogue. It will bring together researchers working on astrophysical theory and modelling, numerical relativity, and gravitational-wave data analysis to explore what are the astrophysical lessons that can be robustly drawn from O4.
The workshop will have a very heavy focus on discussions and interactions to promote problem solving structured around three themes:
- Astrophysical modelling: merger signatures expected from different formation channels
- Data analysis: which features in the data are robust
- Falsification: how the new data constrain and refine astrophysical models
Registration deadline: 8 November 2026
The number of participants is limited. We will confirm participation shortly after registration closes.
Organizers
Jakob Stegmann (MPA), Lieke van Son (Radboud University), Davide Gerosa (Milano-Bicocca), Samaya Nissanke (DESY/DZA), and Salvatore Vitale (MIT).
LIGO Laboratory Job Opening: Research Engineer, at LIGO Caltech
The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) Laboratory seeks a highly motivated and skilled Research Engineer to join its team. LIGO Laboratory is a National Science Foundation major facility dedicated to observing gravitational-waves. Jointly operated by the California Institute of Technology and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the LIGO Laboratory operates world-leading observatories near Richland, WA and Baton Rouge, LA as well as R&D centers on the Caltech and MIT campuses. The LIGO Laboratory’s mission spans a broad and vibrant array of activities related to gravitational-wave physics and astronomy, including detector operations, R&D toward detector improvements, gravitational-wave astrophysics, observatory operations, and education and public outreach. For more information, please visit the Laboratory website at www.ligo.caltech.edu. This position is an in-person role located in Pasadena, California.
As a Research Engineer in the LIGO Laboratory, you will have the opportunity to apply your skills to the design and implementation of technologies that increase the LIGO detector sensitivity and astrophysical reach, and to the development of the future interferometric detectors of the next decades. This position focuses on the development and characterization of the extremely high performance systems used for the LIGO interferometer, including but not limited to: the test mass mirrors, a critical component with state of the art performance: greater than 99.999% reflection, extremely low scatter, sub-part-per-million absorption and very low thermal noise; laser systems with unparalleled stability; seismic and vibration isolation systems; optical telescopes and sensors.
This is a highly multidisciplinary activity and your interests and passions will play a role in defining which research aspect you will focus primarily on.
You will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge to many different parts and aspects of the current and future LIGO detectors, and there will be many opportunities to develop new skills and expertise.
Essential Job Duties
- Support the cutting edge R&D program at the LIGO laboratory aimed at improving the sensitivity of the current and future detectors, in collaboration with scientists and engineers in the LIGO Laboratory and the LIGO Scientific Collaboration.
- Support the development, characterization and deployment of LIGO core optics components, such as test masses and other optical components.
- Design, construct and operate experiments and measurement systems to test new coatings and new technologies for current and future gravitational-wave instruments.
- Collaborate in the R&D for core components of the LIGO interferometers including: seismic isolation, suspensions, core optics, lasers, mode matching systems, adaptive optics systems.
- Collaborate with vendors and other research groups on the development of technologies and components relevant for the LIGO detector upgrades.
- Develop strong working relationships and collaborations with scientists and engineers at the two LIGO Observatories.
- This position requires occasional travel to other LIGO installations and collaborating institutions in Livingston, Louisiana, Hanford, Washington, Cambridge, Massachusetts, and possibly internationally.
- Applicants must be able to work in a cleanroom and laser environment for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to lift and/or carry 20 or more pounds of lab and/or prototype equipment.
- Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
- A Bachelor in Physics, Engineering, Optics, or related experimental field.
- A minimum of 3 years post bachelor degree experience as an experimental physicist, engineer or equivalent laboratory setting; this can be in a professional work environment or as part of further education.
- A minimum of 2 years experience with scientific computations and modeling using MATLAB, python or similar tools; this can be a significant contribution to a research project or work for a private employer.
- Experience with the design and construction of engineered systems or research experiments.
- Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, as presentation of your work and findings to senior member of the LIGO laboratory is critical.
- Demonstrable experience of successfully working with a team.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master or Ph.D. in Physics or equivalent experience.
- Experience with mechanical CAD (Solidworks or equivalent) and Optical Design CAD (Zemax or equivalent).
- Experience with gravitational-wave detector technology.
Required Documents
- A cover letter is a required document for this position. Please write a letter that summarizes your relevant experience and your interest in working at LIGO.
- Resume.
Please find here details.
LIGO Laboratory Job Opening: Senior Scientist, at LIGO Caltech
LIGO Laboratory (the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) seeks a highly motivated and skilled Senior Scientist to join its team with experience in research, design and problem solving in a collaborative environment. LIGO Laboratory is a National Science Foundation major facility dedicated to observing gravitational-waves. Jointly operated by the California Institute of Technology and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the LIGO Laboratory operates world-leading observatories near Richland, WA and Baton Rouge, LA as well as R&D centers on the Caltech and MIT campuses. The LIGO Laboratory’s mission spans a broad and vibrant array of activities related to gravitational-wave physics and astronomy, including detector operations, R&D toward detector improvements, gravitational-wave astrophysics, observatory operations, and education and public outreach. For more information, please visit the Laboratory website at www.ligo.caltech.edu. This position is an in-person role located in Pasadena, California. The successful candidate will report to the most senior engineers at LIGO Lab. Given how important core optics and optical coatings are for LIGO today and LIGO tomorrow this is an important position and offers the individual an important role within LIGO Lab. This is an exciting opportunity to work with world-leading scientists and engineers on cutting-edge science. This selected candidate will be a vital part of our talented team, helping to lead LIGO into the future.
A full list of the job duties including opportunities for creativity, direction and planning are listed below.
Essential Job Duties
- Perform optical design and analysis.
- Conducting research on optical designs and optical coatings.
- Direct and assist with testing, analysis, and oversight of precision optical metrology instruments to test hypotheses and gather data.
- Support the operation and maintenance of world-class, precision optical characterization and metrology facilities.
- Develop optical specifications, policies, and procedures.
- Provide technical expert support for multi-million-dollar contracts with optics and coating fabricators providing cutting edge technology that enables LIGO’s extreme sensitivity.
- Provide ongoing modifications and solution alternatives to meet current and future research and observatory requirements
- Conceptualize the design and direct the development of enhanced measurement techniques and improved optics.
- Diagnose and design solutions and modifications in response to optic, optical equipment or component malfunctions and failures.
- Support the current lead with overseeing the Caltech Optical Sciences Group, including technical, budget, resource, and task management
- Provide technical guidance as well as technical oversight to matrixed engineering and science staff working on optics, opto-electronics, and interferometry.
- Communicate (written and verbal) technical progress and budget/resource status on various projects, internally within the organization and externally to parties outside the organization
- Over time, take on people-management responsibilities and coach junior staff, encourage professional development, conduct annual reviews and nurture the team.
- Other Duties as Assigned
Basic Qualifications
- BS in Physics, Astronomy or Engineering.
- A minimum of 10 years of experience with high precision optics.
- A minimum of 8 years of experience in mentoring junior scientists and/or students.
- Comprehensive knowledge of optical design, analysis, and testing for interferometry.
- Experience directly using scientific observation and analysis, creative thinking, and method development to solve problems related to optics and optical systems.
- Significant experience with precision optical metrology.
- Significant experience with technical specifications and support for contracting optical fabrication.
Preferred Qualifications
- Masters or a PhD. in a related field.
- Significant experience in technical supervision of a group of 5 or more staff.
- Experience in project management including use of MS Project for project management and planning.
- History of working in and with International Collaborations with Optical scientists and other professionals, including mechanical, electrical, and computer engineers, physicists, and research scientists, to invent original concepts for optical products and improve existing devices.
Required Documents
- Resume.
- Cover Letter is a required document for this position. Please summarize your relevant experience and your interest in working at LIGO Lab.
Please find here full details.