PhD Position (2025-2028): The CEA’s Institut de Recherche sur les Lois Fondamentales de l’Univers (IRFU) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on fast parameter inference of gravitational waves for the LISA space mission. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in gravitational wave astrophysics, data analysis, and machine learning.
PhD Position (2025-2028) in Gravitational Wave Data Analysis for the LISA Space Mission
Designation
PhD Researcher
Research Area
- Gravitational waves
- Bayesian inference
- Machine learning
- Signal processing
Location
CEA Paris-Saclay Research Centre, IRFU Institute, Paris-Saclay Cluster, France
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Proficient in software development, particularly in Python.
- Familiarity with deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, JAX) is desirable.
- Experience with open-source tools (e.g., GitHub).
- Basic knowledge of statistical inference, signal processing, and machine learning.
- Prior experience in gravitational wave data analysis is a plus.
- English proficiency is required; knowledge of French is not mandatory.
Job Description
The PhD candidate will focus on developing tools for LISA’s low-latency alert pipeline (LLAP) to achieve rapid detection and characterization of gravitational wave sources. Key responsibilities include:
- Fast parameter inference of gravitational waves using advanced techniques like gradient-based sampling, machine learning-assisted methods, and variational inference.
- Early detection of black hole mergers.
- Addressing challenges posed by LISA’s complex data, including noise, glitches, and data gaps.
- Real-time handling of incoming data packages with the developed fast inference framework.
The project involves applying Bayesian statistical methods and machine learning to develop algorithms for event detection and source parameter estimation, with a focus on black hole mergers and extreme mass ratio inspirals (EMRIs).
Scientific Environment
The candidate will join the ALEPH group at IRFU and work in an interdisciplinary team specializing in gravitational wave astrophysics, signal processing, and machine learning. Access to cutting-edge computational resources, including the Jean Zay supercomputer, will be provided. The candidate will participate in the LISA collaboration and present findings at international conferences.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application to:
- Dr. Tobías I. Liaudat: [tobias.liaudat@cea.fr]
- Dr. Jérôme Bobin: [jerome.bobin@cea.fr]
Include the following in your application:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details for references
Last Date for Application
30 March 2025
This is a remarkable opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking space mission while working in an internationally recognized research environment.
