Research Associate for the Project “Interferometer noise budget modelling and optical simulations for the Einstein Telescope” in the Project “Towards an optical twin of the Einstein Telescope” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute of Experimental Physics and Hamburg Observatory

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.01.2027, fixed until 30.06.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-10-31

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

The position is part of the project "Towards an optical twin for the Einstein Telescope" and belongs to the joint project "Challenges in Interferometer Noise and Control" in the scope of R&D for the Einstein Telescope in Germany in the so-called Preparatory Program. The joint project focuses on the laser interferometer, the core of the Einstein Telescope. Their operation, control and noise performance not only determine the astrophysical reach of the observatory, but also drive its design on all relevant scales. To realise the ambitious sensitivity goals for the Einstein Telescope, accurate optical models, realistic noise budgets and detailed interferometer simulations are required to predict detector performance, evaluate trade-offs and guide the development of the observatory.

In recent years, the research team in Hamburg has developed extensive expertise in modelling and predicting interferometric signals in a wide range of optical systems using the ray-tracing simulation framework IfoCAD and others. IfoCAD has been applied to design quasi-monolithic interferometers and to study interferometer performance, Gaussian beam propagation, tilt-to-length coupling, stray-light propagation and optical tolerances in precision laser interferometers. Applications include the space-based gravitational-wave mission LISA, compact optical displacement sensors, the Any Light Particle Search II (ALPS II) experiment at DESY and, more recently, laser ring gyroscopes for rotational seismology. Building on this expertise, the project aims to develop the optical simulation framework for a digital twin of the Einstein Telescope.

The research of this position focuses on developing and applying simulation tools such as IfoCAD and FINESSE to model the Einstein Telescope’s main interferometer and auxiliary optical systems.

Responsibilities include implementing new optical components and functionalities; modelling technical noise sources, optical tolerances, noise couplings; contributing to detector noise budgets and performance, and validating simulation tools. The candidate will support the optical design and optimisation of it in collaboration with the Einstein Telescope collaboration.

The position will be situated in the newly established research group for Gravitational and Astroparticle Physics at the University of Hamburg. The group conducts research in precision optical metrology for experiments in gravitational wave and astroparticle physics, including the Einstein Telescope, LIGO, and the Any Light Particle Search II (ALPS II) experiment at DESY and coordinates the WAVE initiative Hamburg. Current research focuses on laser interferometry, quantum sensing, optical-, seismic- and particle simulations, fiber sensing, and Newtonian noise mitigation.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to become a member of the Cluster of Excellence Quantum Universe and benefit from its scientific network, academic and transferable-skills training, and career development support. They will join the Einstein Telescope Collaboration and will also have the opportunity to join the LIGO Scientific Collaboration. The position includes participation in international collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

The following skills are mandatory

• excellent command of the English language and the ability to communicate and engage in an international team environment
• experience in optics, laser interferometry and programming (C++, python)

Prior experience in several of the following fields is beneficial: noise analysis and noise budgets, optical modelling and simulation, precision optical metrology, laboratory work, precision measurements, gravitational-wave detectors, software development, and version control using Git.

Outstanding candidates will demonstrate a high level of intrinsic motivation, scientific creativity, the ability to work independently, a structured and responsible approach to research, excellent communication skills, and strong teamwork abilities in an international research environment.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Katharina-Sophie Isleif

Oliver Gerberding

+49 40 2395-26080

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

264

Application deadline

2026-10-31

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.