Tag: postdoctoral position

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 (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.

The Institute for Gravitational Physics invites applications for the following position starting at the earliest possible date: Research Position (Postdoc) in the field Gravitational Wave Detector Instrumentation (salary scale 13 TV-L, 100 %). The fixed-term position is limited to 3 years. 

This position is part of the project “Developing a modular suspension platform interferometer for the Einstein Telescope” which aims to investigate and design an ultra-sensitive interferometric sensor for sensing and controlling the motion between seismically isolated platforms for the next generation Einstein Telescope gravitational wave detector.

The research will be carried out at the 10m Prototype Facility (https://10m.aei.mpg.de/) which is jointly operated by Leibniz University Hannover and the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics. This project will build upon pioneering research conducted in this research group and ensure that a design of an inter-platform sensor specific for Einstein Telescope will be mature and ready for installation. 

Your responsibilities 

• Deriving requirements for inter-platform motion in Einstein Telescope and utilising available simulation tools and working closely with other working groups within the Einstein Telescope collaboration
• Supporting the work to develop, design, build and validate a prototype inter-platform motion sensor that will be compatible with Einstein Telescope

Who are we looking for?

Prerequisite for employment is a completed university degree in physics, optical engineering, or comparable field. A doctorate and a strong background in and experience with gravitational wave detector instrumentation are preferred.

Furthermore, you must have the following qualifications:

• An excellent understanding of optics, interferometry and mechanics with proficiency in both optical laboratories and undertaking optical and/or mechanical simulations
• Very good written and spoken English with excellent communications skills to engage with an international research team
• Excellent organizational skills, own initiative, and the ability to familiarise oneself with new areas of work is required
• Experience with supervision of students

Prior involvement with the Einstein Telescope collaboration and/or other international gravitational wave detector collaborations is highly desirable but not required. 

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above-mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities. 

Why join us?

This position will provide the opportunity to join a dynamic team in a motivating work environment as part of large international collaborations, and take the opportunity to carry out precision experiments at this world-class research facility.

Through our collaboration with the QUEST Leibniz Research School and the Cluster of Excellence QuantumFrontiers, we offer outstanding development opportunities, actively support scientific staff in their career development. This includes a wide range training opportunities in soft skills and networking opportunities. 

Part-time employment as well as remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

Additional information

For further information, please contact Dr. David Wu (tel.: +49 (0)511 762-5845, email: david.wu(at)aei.uni-hannover.de). 

Applications 

Please arrange for up to two letters of recommendation to be sent directly by your reference/s, and submit your application consisting of a cover letter, curriculum vitae and copies of your academic degrees by 11th October 2026 to

Email: david.wu(at)aei.uni-hannover.de 
using the subject “ET-SPI-2026-Postdoc Application” 

or alternatively by post to:
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
Institute for Gravitational Physics
Dr. David Wu
Callinstr. 38, 30167 Hannover
Germany

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The STAR Institute at the University of Liège, Belgium invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position to work with the OGrav group, starting on November 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

The postdoctoral researcher will focus on deep-learning-based Newtonian Noise subtraction for the Einstein Telescope. The work will include the development, implementation, and in-situ tests of the method on the E-TEST prototype developed in Liège by Prof. Christophe Collette. The successful candidate will also collaborate with members of the Applied Geophysics (APGEO) group led by Prof. Frédéric Nguyen, and the Belgian gravitational-wave community (GraviBel/BelGrav).

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED / PROFILE

• A PhD in science, engineering, applied sciences, or a related field;
• Strong knowledge of machine-learning and deep-learning methods and practical experience with modern machine-learning tools;

Applicants must not have spent more than 24 months as residents of Belgium over the last 3 years.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The selection procedure will be in accordance with the regulations of the University of Liège. Our institutional policy is based on diversity and equal opportunities. We select candidates on the basis of their qualities, regardless of age, sexual orientation, origin, beliefs, disability or nationality.

APPLICATIONS

Applications should be sent to maxime.fays(at)uliege.be, specifying the reference number of the post.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED

• A motivation letter;
• A complete curriculum vitae;
• A complete publication list;
• A short report on previous and current research activities;
• Two letters of recommendation, to be sent directly to the above address.

RECRUITMENT CONDITIONS

The position is allocated for 2 years and may be extended to a third year in exceptional cases.

The position includes support for travel to collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences, with an indicative travel budget of approximately EUR 3,000 per year. Recent comparable postdoctoral contracts at the University of Liège corresponded to a net salary of approximately EUR 2,900 per month, depending on personal circumstances and applicable tax and social security rules.

INFORMATION

Any information concerning the nature of the tasks can be obtained from Prof. Maxime Fays maxime.fays(at)uliege.be

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.

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.

Please find here details.

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.

Please find here full details.

For our location in Hamburg we are seeking: DESY-Fellowships in Experimental Particle Physics
Remuneration Group 13 | Limited: 2+1 years | Starting date: between 01.07.2026 and 01.01.2027 | ID: FHFE001/2026 | Deadline: 31.03.2026 | Full-time/Part-time
DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.

We participate in leading roles in particle physics projects on our campus and at international laboratories such as CERN or KEK. We develop technologies for detectors and accelerators, and work on scientific computing. We operate important infrastructures such as a WLCG Tier-2 computing centre or the DESY test beam facility.

Interested applicants for a fellowship in experimental physics are requested to submit their application in English (letter of motivation, research interest, CV, list of publications, copies of university degrees, three letters of reference) via our application portal. The statement about the scientific interest has to include your specific motivation for one of the research projects mentioned below.

The decision on the awarding of a fellowship for the 1/2026 selection round will presumably be made by 31 May 2026. The fellowship at DESY in Hamburg is to be started during the second half of 2026.

About your role:

You are invited to take an active role in one of the following research projects in Hamburg:

• ATLAS ITk Strip Detector Upgrade, possibly in combination with a physics analysis
• CMS Outer Tracker Upgrade, possibly in combination with a physics analysis
• Study of B- or τ-decays at Belle II
• Current and future on-site experiments

About you:

• PhD in Physics: Doctorate must be completed before starting the fellowship, but must not be older than 5 years
• Strong interest in particle physics research, detector development or scientific computing
• Expert knowledge and experience in the field of the selected project

Good reasons to join:

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. To support work life balance we offer flexible working hours and variable part-time. You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

Further informations about the DESY-Fellowship can be found here: https://www.desy.de/FellowFH

Please arrange for three letters of reference to be uploaded via our online toolby 31 March 2026.

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:

 Apply now!

DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us and therefore we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position. Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified (sbv.desy.de).

You can find further information here:

https://www.desy.de/career