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Postdoctoral position: Einstein Telescope noise-budget modelling at University of Hamburg

The position is part of project “Developing ET Noise Budget: Reliability, Accessibility and Completeness.” The project will develop reliable, documented, and publicly accessible ET noise budgets for detector-design decisions; expand models for effects such as control noise, scattered light, and Newtonian noise; and help build a robust open-source software framework based on pygwinc.

The role combines scientific modelling, Python software development, verification and review of detector-noise models, and close collaboration with European ET experts and partner projects.

We are seeking an experienced postdoctoral researcher with a PhD in physics or a related field, strong quantitative modelling and Python skills, and interest or experience in gravitational-wave detectors, interferometry, precision metrology, controls, or scientific software. Experience with Git-based development, testing, documentation, code review, pygwinc, FINESSE, IfoCAD, or related tools is particularly welcome.

Application deadline: 17 August 2026

Please finde here full advertisement and application details.

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Instrument/Experiment Postdoctoral position at the LIGO Laboratory

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) has as its goal the development of gravitational wave physics and astronomy. The LIGO Laboratory is managed by Caltech and MIT, and is funded by the National Science Foundation. It operates observatory sites equipped with laser interferometric detectors at Hanford, Washington and Livingston, Louisiana, which have made the first confirmed detection of gravitational waves. A vigorous LIGO Laboratory R&D program supports the development of enhancements to the LIGO detector and development of future detectors and detector technologies.

The LIGO Laboratory anticipates having one or possibly more experiment/instrumentation postdoctoral research positions at one or more of the LIGO sites – Caltech, MIT and at the two LIGO Observatories in Hanford, WA and Livingston, LA – as positions become available. Hires will be made based on the availability of funding. Successful applicants will interact with faculty members Rana Adhikari and Lee McCuller (Caltech) and Matt Evans and Nergis Mavalvala (MIT) as well as the Lab’s extensive network of experienced researchers and personnel. Successful applicants will be involved in the operation of the world’s most sensitive interferometers, and/or the R&D program for future detector improvements. Examples include optimizing the squeezing of the vacuum to minimize quantum noise, a prototype cryogenic interferometer, using machine learning for nonlinear feedback control, devising techniques to quell opto-mechanical instabilities that can disable the interferometers, and designing new suspension systems for 100 kg test masses. We seek candidates across a broad range of disciplines. Expertise related to modeling, data analysis, electronics, laser and quantum optics, vibration isolation and control systems is desirable. Most importantly, candidates should be broadly trained scientists, willing to learn new experimental and analytical techniques, and ready to share in the excitement of building, operating and observing with a gravitational-wave observatory. A list of former postdocs at LIGO Hanford and LIGO Livingston is available here . Appointments at the post-doctoral level will initially be for one-year with the possibility of renewal for up to two subsequent years.

Applications for postdoctoral research positions with LIGO Laboratory should indicate which of the LIGO sites (Caltech, MIT, Hanford, or Livingston), if any, are preferred by the applicant, and which (if any) are likely to be unworkable. Caltech and MIT are Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employers. Women, minorities, veterans, and disabled persons are encouraged to apply. Applications should be submitted through Academic Jobs Online and include curriculum vitae , list of publications (with refereed articles noted), and the names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers of three or more references. Please also attach a research statement describing past experience and current and future research interests (3-4 pages). Applicants should request that three or more letters of recommendations be submitted directly through Academic Jobs Online. Consideration of applications will begin on November 15 but will also continue throughout the academic year and until all positions are filled.

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PhD positions in gravitational-wave astronomy at University of the Balearic Islands

 We are offering two fully funded PhD positions at the Universitat de les Illes Balears (UIB) in Palma de Mallorca, Spain, in the field of gravitational-wave astronomy. There are two positions available:

PROJECT A (PI Dr. Ornella Juliana Piccinni): One project will focus on the development of novel data analysis methods for the search and characterization of continuous gravitational waves and dark matter candidates, with applications to current and future detectors.
PROJECT B (PI Dr. Cecilio Garcia-Quiros): The second project will focus on the modelling of gravitational-wave signals from compact binary systems and on the development of data analysis methods for the parameter estimation of these systems using current and next-generation gravitational-wave observatories.

The successful candidate will join the GRAVITY research group at the IAC3, an internationally recognised team with a leading role in gravitational-wave science. The group is a major contributor to the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA (LVK) Collaboration as well as the next generation of gravitational-wave observatories LISA and Einstein Telescope. As part of the GRAVITY group, the successful candidate will work within a vibrant international research environment, collaborating with scientists from leading institutions worldwide and contributing to cutting-edge research. For more information about the institute see https://iac3.uib.es/

For more information about the positions, eligibility requirements, and the application procedure please send a CV and a short statement of interest to ornella.piccinni(at)uib.es for PROJECT A and cecilio.garcia(at)uib.es for PROJECT B before 27 July.

The deadline for submitting the formal application and all required supporting documents through the University application is 18 September 2026. The successful candidates are expected to start their contracts on 1 November 2026.

Please feel free to forward this announcement to candidates who may be interested.

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Physics or a closely related field. Candidates who have not yet completed their master’s degree are also encouraged to apply, provided that they obtain their master’s degree before the start of the contract on 1 November 2026. By the contract start date, all successful candidates must have completed both degrees and accumulated at least 300 ECTS credits.

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Gravitational-Wave Research Scientist III at JPL

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), California Institute of Technology, invites applications for a Staff Scientist position working on Gravitational Wave science. JPL offers a unique research environment that bridges the gap between fundamental science and space-mission implementation. We are committed to fostering an enriching, rewarding research environment with strong support for professional and personal development. Applications received by August 15, 2026 will receive full consideration.

Responsibilities:

We are looking for an innovative Scientist III to play a pivotal role in developing data analysis algorithms for the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). As JPL expands its capabilities in low-frequency gravitational-wave astronomy, this role is essential for developing the sophisticated pipelines required to untangle complex, overlapping signals in order to transition noisy data into astrophysical insight.

The successful candidate will make contributions in one or more of the following areas:

  • Develop Core Pipelines: Design, implement, and validate novel data analysis algorithms, noise reduction algorithms, low-latency alert pipelines, and global-fit architectures tailored for low-frequency gravitational-wave data.
  • Bridge Theory and Data Integrate instrumental, environmental, and astrophysical systematics into robust statistical frameworks to isolate faint cosmological and astrophysical signals from instrument noise and background signals.
  • Leverage the Caltech-JPL Ecosystem: Actively collaborate with JPL’s Galaxies and/or Cosmology Groups, Caltech’s Theoretical Astrophysics Relativity (TAPIR) group, and experts across Caltech’s Division of Physics, Mathematics, and Astronomy (PMA).
  • Strengthen US LISA ties: Work collaboratively to strengthen ties across the NASA LISA ecosystem at GSFC, MSFC, and JPL.
  • Astrophysical Modeling: Advance and connect theoretical models to data analysis pipelines through development of individual source waveform models and/or astrophysical populations.
  • Shape Long-Term Capabilities: Help develop future space-based mission concepts, ground-segment architectures, and enabling data technologies for the next generation of space physics.

Qualifications:

  • A Ph.D. in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a related discipline with a minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral or relevant research experience.
  • Deep technical foundation in gravitational-wave data analysis methodologies.
  • Proven track record of scientific excellence in gravitational-wave astronomy, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and presentations at major international conferences.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to thrive within a highly collaborative, multi-institutional team environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, along with a proactive commitment to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and dynamic research culture.

Desired Skills:

  • Direct experience developing data analysis algorithms, astrophysical models, or software frameworks for gravitational wave observatories.
  • Proficiency in applying machine learning or advanced data science methodologies to complex, continuous astrophysical datasets.
  • Broader expertise in multi-messenger astrophysics or related fields of cosmology (e.g., ground-based GW networks, pulsar timing arrays, or cosmic microwave background analysis).
  • Demonstrated potential or experience in successfully proposing for research funds as a Principal Investigator or Co-Investigator.

Note:

Complete applications must include:

  • Cover Letter: Describing your vision for your role at JPL as a leader and contributor to the field of space-based gravitational-wave science.
  • Curriculum Vitae: Including a bibliography of peer-reviewed and other publications.
  • Research Statement: Detailing your research experience and future research objectives (no more than 3 pages).
  • References: Contact information for at least three professional reference writers.

Applications received by August 15, 2026 will receive full consideration.

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

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PhD Position in Gravity and Cosmology at NCBJ Warsaw

The Theory Division at the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ), Warsaw, invites applications for a PhD student position in gravity and cosmology.

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with experience in scientific computing (Python, C++, and/or Mathematica), a strong background in quantum mechanics, and prior training in general relativity and cosmology through graduate-level coursework or equivalent research experience. Familiarity with quantum gravity will be considered an advantage.

The successful candidate will work on quantum cosmology, contributing to the development of an extension of the standard cosmological framework based on the multiverse-state formalism. The project combines analytical and numerical approaches. The PhD student will be responsible for developing numerical implementations of the formalism, designing and testing computational algorithms, performing numerical simulations, deriving analytical approximations, and investigating potential observational signatures. The student will also contribute to perturbative calculations and the interpretation of the obtained results.

The position is funded by the National Science Centre, Poland, under grant DEC-2025/59/B/ST2/00497. The successful candidate will be enrolled in the NCBJ Doctoral School. Funding includes a doctoral scholarship for up to four years and resources necessary to conduct the research project, including support for conference travel.

The expected starting date is 1 October 2026 (or shortly thereafter).

The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026.

Applications should be submitted through the NCBJ Doctoral School admission process:
https://gradschool.ncbj.gov.pl/admission-requirements/

Applicants should submit:

  • a curriculum vitae,
  • academic transcripts,
  • a statement of research interests describing their motivation and relevant background,
  • a completed application form.

Application materials should be sent to grad@ncbj.gov.pl.

For further information, please visit the NCBJ Doctoral School website (https://gradschool.ncbj.gov.pl).

Please find here details.

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One 2-year junior postdoc position in quantum gravity in Marseille

The quantum gravity team at the Centre de Physique Théorique in Marseille invites applications for one two-year junior postdoctoral position starting in early 2027. The position can start any time after December 1, 2026, but no later than April 1, 2027.

The candidate must have completed their PhD before the starting date and have less than two years of postdoctoral experience. The group consists of four permanent members — Alejandro Perez, Pietro Donà, Simone Speziale, and Carlo Rovelli – and currently includes five PhD students and two postdocs.

The successful candidate is expected to collaborate, though not exclusively, with team members on their projects, engage with PhD students, and contribute to organizing the group’s activities. The team focuses on quantum gravity, quantum information aspects of quantum gravity, black hole physics, and asymptotic symmetries in general relativity.

The salary will follow the French academic pay scale for postdocs, with an estimated net salary of approximately 2400 EUR per month.

Interested applicants should submit a CV, a list of publications, and a research statement compiled in a single PDF file by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/176ziCgsdQxdk7B49

Applicants should also provide the names and contact details of up to two referees, whom we will contact directly for letters of recommendation.

The application deadline is September 20, 2026.

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LIGO Laboratory Job Opening: Electronics Engineer, LIGO Caltech

The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO) Laboratory seeks a highly motivated and skilled Electronics 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.

The successful candidate will work hands-on to develop, design, procure, build and test electronics and electronic systems hardware, from the prototype to production for the many systems in the LIGO gravitational-wave detectors. 

The successful candidate will collaborate across multiple locations, teams, and disciplines, to support the continued operation and future upgrades to the LIGO laboratory detectors, working at the development of existing systems and at the design of new low noise, high dynamic range, analog and digital electronics for opto-electronic and mechanical devices, including for example: piezo transducers, photodiodes, solid state lasers, acousto-optic modulators, seismic sensors and actuators.  

To conquer the many challenges and rewards associated with building systems that have never been built before, the successful candidate will need to show great attention to detail, curiosity and initiative to explore new ideas and technologies, and will have autonomy to make decisions with support as needed. LIGO is seeking a well-rounded electronics engineer with a broad curiosity of engineering disciplines.

This position is hands-on and will focus on the design and prototyping of the electronics with attention to the interface with the other hardware components. This LIGO engineering position will allow the successful candidate to expand their skillset beyond pure electronics, and gain a working knowledge of optical and mechanical systems as they interface with the electronics needed to operate them.

Essential Job Duties

  • Develop existing and design new low noise, high dynamic range, analog and digital electronics for opto-electronic devices.
  • Build and test electronics components such as chassis, boards and cables.
  • Procure the necessary supplies, parts and materials required for the setup, operation and maintenance of electronics prototypes and production systems.
  • Liaise with in-house and external workshops and vendors.
  • Engage in hands-on creation of precise prototypes in a laboratory setting.
  • Assist with the development of test procedures and evaluation methodologies, and carry out the corresponding measurement and test campaigns.
  • Document system designs, tests and measurements.
  • Perform inventory control and tracking for supplies and parts.
  • Support the two LIGO observatories, either remotely or on-site, with travel up to 25% of time.
  • Participate in upgrades, troubleshooting, problem solving, failure analysis, root cause and corrective action processes as required.
  • Perform cross-discipline work involving mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and physics.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

  • A B.S in Electronics engineering or 4 years of equivalent workplace experience in lieu of a degree.
  • Demonstrable experience of working with basic electronic circuits, electronic testing equipment and testing procedures.
  • Demonstrable skills in microcontroller programming and applications.
  • Basic electronics construction hands on skills including: soldering, repair, and prototyping.
  • Work effectively with cross-disciplinary teams. This includes the ability to take direction, work independently with little to no supervision, and work in a team environment.
  • Excellent organization and time management skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, a team attitude and a high degree of professional discipline are essential.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Masters in a relevant technical field.
  • Excellent working knowledge of microcontroller design such as Arduino or similar.
  • SolidWorks experience: a portfolio of original work or a certification.
  • Altium experience: a portfolio of original work or a certification.
  • IPC J-STD-001 Electronics assembly certification or equivalent.
  • Machine shop skills as applies to electronics fabrication.
  • Disciplined approach to testing and documentation of experimental processes and results.
  • Possess a high level of initiative, flexibility, and creativity. Possess the ability to multitask, strong problem-solving skills, and a desire to learn.
  • Adapts quickly and resourcefully to shifting priorities and requirements, acquiring whatever knowledge and/or skills are required to effectively address problems that arise.

Required Documents

  • A cover letter summarizing your relevant experience and explaining why you are interested in working at LIGO Lab.
  • Resume.

Please find here full details.

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Scientific programmer position in the Computational Relativistic Astrophysics division at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics in Potsdam

The "Computational Relativistic Astrophysics" division at the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (the Albert Einstein Institute) in Potsdam, led by Masaru Shibata (director) announces the opening of a position for a scientific programmer. This division currently focuses on several research topics in computational relativistic astrophysics including neutron star mergers, collapsars, nucleosynthesis, stellar core collapse and explosion, the formation and evolution of very massive and supermassive black holes, and multi-messenger astrophysics. The deadline for the full consideration is 12 pm on August 16th, 2026 (CET).

We are seeking a scientific programmer with a research background who meets the following requirements, i.e., who has

  • Experience in independently developing numerical relativity codes for solving Einstein’s equation and running them on high-performance computers
  • Experience in independently developing relativistic magnetohydrodynamics simulation codes and running them on high-performance computers
  • Experience in independently developing radiative hydrodynamics simulation codes and running them on high-performance computers
  • Experience in independently developing a code with adaptive mesh refinement scheme for solving Einstein’s equation and radiation magnetohydrodynamics equations
  • Ability to write codes optimized for both CPUs and GPUs
  • A track record of publishing at least 10 scientific papers in well-established international journals

We offer you a responsible and multifaceted job in an international working environment, extensive opportunities for further education, and an excellent working atmosphere in a friendly and committed team. Flexible working hours and the compatibility of career are of course an important matter for us.

The scientific programmer who meets these requirements has the possibility to be hired as a permanent member of staff following a three-month probationary period.

Remuneration and social benefits are based on the public service collective agreement (TVöD).  A projection of the gross and net salary based on the TVöD regulations will be prepared in case an offer is made. Additional support and professional development are available.

To apply for a scientific programmer position at the AEI in Potsdam, please fill out this form:

https://jobs.aei.mpg.de/250/scientific-programmer-position-cra/apply

Applicants will be asked to upload a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications and statement of their research interests. Applicants will need to indicate the names of three referees for recommendation letters. Referees will be notified by email on how to upload the letters (in case of problems, referees could send the letters directly to nrjobs(at)aei.mpg.de).

The deadline for the full consideration is 12 pm on August 16th, 2026 (CET). The position will be available from November 1st, 2026.

We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic background, origin, religion and ideology, age, sexual orientation and identity (Code of Conduct). The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

The institute promotes a healthy work-life balance by offering all employees a family support service, cooperation with a nearby international kindergarten, as well as an in-house parent-child office and nursing room.

The excellent working environment offers various on-campus support (computing facilities, language courses, residence permit and visa support, children’s day care, etc.). The AEI is located just 30 minutes from the city center of Berlin.

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Lecturer / Senior Lecturer (Assistant / Associate Professor) in Astrophysics in Bath

The Department of Physics at the University of Bath is seeking to appoint a Lecturer / Senior Lecturer with a strong research profile in astrophysics. Any exceptional candidate with a research profile that aligns well with the research strengths of the Bath Astrophysics Group will be considered, but we particularly encourage applicants with a research profile in observational time-domain astrophysics. The Bath Astrophysics Group has an international reputation in Galaxy and extragalactic astrophysics, including relativistic transients and their host galaxies, extreme matter physics, multi-messenger astronomy, galaxy evolution, galaxy – black hole coevolution, variable stars and cosmology. Group members are active in numerous international science collaborations, making use of and developing capabilities for major astronomical facilities such as JWST, VRO-LSST, CTA, SKA, Cosmic Explorer, and eXTP. Bath is an institutional member of the 4MOST consortium, and hosts on-campus as well as cloud computational facilities for data-intensive research. Closing date Monday 10 August 2026.

The University of Bath is a leading research-intensive University. In the previous REF2021 assessment, 96% of the Department’s submitted research activity was ranked world-leading or internationally excellent in terms of originality, significance and rigour. The Department, which graduates approximately 120 high-calibre undergraduate students each year, consists of over 40 academic staff with over 50 postdoctoral researchers & PhD students. Both the Department and the University are committed to providing an encouraging and inclusive work environment. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students, so we encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on our teams.

About you

The successful candidate will establish a well-funded, independent research programme that complements and enhances existing activities in the group and around the university, for instance by forming links within the research group, as well as, for example, the Departments of Computer Science or Mathematical Sciences. The appointee will also contribute to the undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and supervision, and administrative duties within the Department.

Further information

This is a full-time, open-ended role (36.5 hours per week), with an expected start date from September 2026.

For informal enquiries about the role and the Department, please contact Bath Astrophysics Research Group Leader Dr Hendrik van Eerten (hjve20@bath.ac.uk).

In addition to the application form, please upload the following for the second shortlisting stage:

  • your CV and a cover letter, including a full list of publications;
  • a statement describing proposed research activities, including comments on your fit to the department and your plans regarding research funding (maximum two pages of A4);
  • a statement discussing your approach to undergraduate teaching (maximum one page of A4).

We consider ourselves to be a university where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equity and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award. We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students and encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on the university. We are committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and community by reinforcing our Safer Recruitment commitment.

We’re very proud to be a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant, an accredited Disability Confident Leader, and an autism friendly university, committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff.

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Extragalactic Astronomy in Birmingham

The University of Birmingham (UK) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Extragalactic Astronomy, with an emphasis on gravitational lensing, time domain astronomy, and discoveries with the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST).

This is a fixed-term, full-time position for up to three years, with an earliest possible start date of October 1, 2026.

We are especially looking for candidates with interests and expertise relevant to the discovery and interpretation of gravitationally lensed gamma-ray bursts and their afterglows, and associated phenomena including gravitationally lensed supernovae and gravitational wave signals.

The successful applicant will primarily work with Prof. Graham Smith and Dr Ben Gompertz in the Astrophysics and Space Research group within Birmingham’s School of Physics and Astronomy. They will also benefit from a supportive team of local and international collaborators, and be encouraged to gain independence through exploring their own ideas.

Located at the heart of the University of Birmingham’s beautiful campus, Astrophysics and Space Research provides a vibrant and diverse research environment, about which further information can be found here.

The University of Birmingham is an equal opportunity employer. The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Athena SWAN Silver Award holder and JUNO Champion, welcomes people from all backgrounds and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who we are. We encourage applications from all qualified applicants; those from minority groups who are under-represented in this discipline are particularly encouraged to apply.

Role requirements include:

  • PhD (or equivalent) in astrophysics or being near to completion
  • Strong record of research in observational and/or theoretical astrophysics that is relevant to the position
  • Ability to build relationships and collaborate with others

Application Instructions
Further information about the vacancy and how to apply is available here: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/jobs (search for Job ID 9474).
When applying please include: CV (max 2 pages), list of publications, statement of research interests (max 2 pages), and contact details for three referees.
Please also ask referees to email their letters to Nicola Holloway (n.holloway(at)bham.ac.uk) before the closing date.
The closing date for applications is July 15, 2026. Interviews are expected to take place in the second week of August 2026.

Please find here details.