Optical Engineer / Experimental Physicist

Optical Engineer / Experimental Physicist

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Our research group for exoplanets and habitability at the Institute for Particle Physics and Astrophysics at ETH Zurich is leading an international initiative for the Large Interferometer For Exoplanets (LIFE), an ambitious space mission to observe and characterize earth-like exoplanets at mid-infrared wavelengths. As part of the initiative, we are developing the Nulling Interferometry Cryogenic Experiment (NICE), a laboratory experiment to demonstrate the fundamental measurement principle of LIFE under cryogenic conditions at realistic fluxes and wavelengths. NICE is entering its preliminary design phase, and we seek to strengthen our project team with an

Optical engineer / Experimental Physicist (100%)

with a strong background in optical design, opto-mechanical alignment techniques, and manufacturing processes of optical components for cryogenic conditions in the infrared.

Job description

The tasks will consist of

• Supporting the optical design
• Conducing optical system engineering
• providing tolerance analysis and maintaining the optical budgets of NICE
• Further, we expect to manage the specifications and procurement of the optical components
• Finally, the candidate will lead the integration, alignment and verification of the optical subsystems and
• Support the commissioning of the NICE setup
• In parallel, we expect that the candidate will support a concept study for the LIFE space mission based on the knowledge and experience obtained during the development of NICE.

Your profile

You should hold

• A university master’s degree in optical engineering or experimental physics (or equivalent) with experience in optical design and analysis,
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment techniques for cryogenic optical systems, and, ideally, also in interferometry.
• Experience with fiber optics, high precision optics and cryogenic opto-mechanical implementations are an asset.
• You should feel comfortable to work in a diverse team, together with industrial partners, and to deal with complex, long-term, and science driven project processes.
• Skills in utilizing optical modeling software, such as ZEMAX, and wave propagation analysis software, such as COMSOL, are essential.
• Excellent communication and practical problem-solving skills are required.
• The working language (written and spoken) is English. Initially, the position will be for 2 years with the option for extension up to 5 years maximum (subject to performance).

Your workplace

Your workplace

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity and attractive offers and benefits.

We value diversity

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents (pdf format):

• Motivation Letter
• CV
• Highest degree
• Certificates
• Reference letter or Job references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Further information about the Exoplanets and Habitability Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Adrian Glauser, email: E-Mail schreiben (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.

About ETH Zürich

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents (pdf format):

• Motivation Letter
• CV
• Highest degree
• Certificates
• Reference letter or Job references

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Applications will be considered until the position is filled.

Further information about the Exoplanets and Habitability Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr Adrian Glauser, email: E-Mail schreiben (no applications).

For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurich apply.