Summary
ETH Zurich is offering a fully funded PhD position in the SPECULOOS (Search for habitable Planets EClipsing ULtra-cOOl Stars) project. This position invites applications from individuals interested in exoplanet science, particularly in the detection and characterization of Earth-sized planets around ultra-cool dwarf stars.
PhD Position in Search for Earth-Sized Planets Transiting Nearby Ultra-Cool Dwarf Stars (DUET Project) ETH Zurich
Designation
PhD Student (100% Full-Time)
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Exoplanets, Transit Photometry, Ultra-Cool Dwarfs |
| Location | Zurich, ETH Zurich |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in astrophysics, physics, astronomy, or related field |
Description
The PhD student will contribute to the installation, commissioning, and scientific exploitation of the DUET system at the SPECULOOS observatory. The role will involve leveraging simultaneous visible and infrared observations to improve the precision of transit parameters, focusing on developing advanced techniques for data processing and analysis. The project aims to prepare for atmospheric studies of Earth analogs using the James Webb Space Telescope.
Skills Development
The successful candidate will gain expertise in:
- Ground-based exoplanet transit surveys
- Astronomical instrumentation
- Visible and near-infrared photometry
- Time-series data analysis
- Mitigation of stellar variability
- Transit detection and parameter estimation
- Scientific writing and presentations
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit the following documents as a single PDF file by the specified deadline:
- A cover letter detailing motivation and relevant experience
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s degrees)
- A brief statement of research interests (max. 1 page)
- Contact details for two referees
Applications must be submitted through the online application portal. Email or postal submissions will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
April 15, 2026
For further information, please visit the ETH Physics Department website or contact Dr. Peter Pedersen at ppedersen@phys.ethz.ch.
