Summary
ETH Zurich offers a fully funded PhD position focusing on developing extreme-precision radial velocity (EPRV) instrumentation for detecting Earth-like exoplanets. The successful candidate will contribute to a significant observational paradigm aimed at enhancing surveys of Sun-like stars.
PhD Position in Extreme-Precision Radial Velocity Instrumentation for Earth, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Designation
PhD Candidate in Extreme-Precision Radial Velocity Instrumentation
Research Area
- Exoplanets
- Radial Velocity
- Extreme Precision Spectroscopy
- Spectrographs
- Stellar Variability
- Astronomical Instrumentation
- Optical Design
Location
ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in physics, astrophysics, optics, or a related field.
- Strong interest in astronomical instrumentation and exoplanet science.
- Experience or demonstrated interest in optical design, spectroscopy, or precision measurements.
- Programming and data analysis skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Zemax).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international research team.
- Fluency in English (both spoken and written).
Job Description
| Responsibility | Description |
|---|---|
| Optical Design | Advance the HARVY optical design focused on novel optical components. |
| Instrument Construction | Lead the design and manufacturing of key subsystems. |
| On-Sky Test Campaign | Contribute to the preparation and execution of the 2028 on-sky test campaign. |
| System Performance | Maximize the efficiency of the spectrograph components for the detection of Earth analogues around nearby stars. |
| Collaboration | Engage with the exoplanet community and contribute to proposals for characterisation missions like NASA’s HWO and ESA’s LIFE mission. |
How to Apply
Applicants should submit a single PDF file containing the following documents by April 15, 2026:
- Cover letter describing motivation and relevant experience.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Academic transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s degrees).
- Brief statement of research interests (max. 1 page).
- Contact details of two referees.
Applications must be submitted through the online application portal. Email or postal applications will not be considered.
Last Date to Apply
April 15, 2026
For further details, please reach out to Dr. Clark Baker via email: bakerc@ethz.ch.
