Postdoctoral researcher in scattered light calibration for gravitational wave detectors

boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.

The Department of Physics in the Faculty of Science is looking for a full-time (100%) postdoctoral scholarship holder in gravitational wave instrumentation, with a focus on a novel calibration technique for Advanced Virgo+ Phase 2 (O5). The group is an active member of the Virgo, Einstein Telescope (ET), and ETpathfinder collaborations.

Position

Precise calibration of the interferometer strain h(t) is essential to exploit the full sensitivity of Virgo and ET. In this project the successful candidate will further develop, install, and commission a new and independent calibration method that uses back-scattered light from the end benches to inject periodic phase differences in the interferometer without actively moving the mirrors. The technique provides an independent cross-check of the existing photon-calibrator-based reconstruction with different systematic uncertainties, gives access to higher-frequency calibration (1.5–2.0 kHz), and is expected to contribute to an improved absolute detector calibration. Its implementation is an Advanced Virgo+ Phase 2 upgrade deliverable, coordinated by the PI, and the first upgrade project coordinated by Belgian institutes (BelGrav group: UAntwerpen, UGent, VUB). The successful candidate will contribute to the hardware development of the scattering system, to the thermal and ultra-high-vacuum compatibility characterization of the scattering components, and to subsequent installation, commissioning, and performance measurements at the Virgo observatory.

The successful candidate is expected to co-lead the project with the PI and work closely with a PhD student at UGent. In addition, the successful candidate will contribute to Virgo commissioning and service activities in line with Virgo authorship requirements, and contribute to mentoring and supervision of Master's and Bachelor's thesis projects. The position is based in Antwerp, with time foreseen on-site at the Virgo observatory (EGO/Cascina, Italy) during installation and commissioning campaigns. Funding is available for travel to Virgo, collaboration meetings, and partner institutes.

Profile

Applicants should:

• hold a PhD in gravitational wave instrumentation physics, or a closely related field by the start date;
• have a strong interest and background in experimental gravitational wave physics, precision optical measurement, laser interferometry, and/or detector calibration techniques;
• demonstrated experience with optical alignment and characterization, scattered-light modelling, photodiode readout, signal processing for calibration, or on-site commissioning of large-scale experimental apparatus is an advantage;
• act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation
• be able to easily communicate in English.
• be able to work both independently and within a large international collaborations.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.

What we offer

• We offer a full-time appointment as a postdoctoral scholarship holder for a period of 2 years;
• We offer the opportunity to take part in research-related activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
• The planned start date is 1 February 2027 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for postdoctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform. Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a curriculum vitae, including a list of publications;
  • a research statement (maximum two pages) describing past achievements in gravitational wave instrumentation and planned contributions, with emphasis on gravitational wave detector calibration, scattered-light techniques, or on-site commissioning experience at gravitational wave observatories.
  • the names and contact details of two referees, who should arrange for letters of recommendation to be sent separately to hans.vanhaevermaet@uantwepren.be.
• Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, but priority will be given to those received before 15 November 2026. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you about the next step(s) in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Hans Van Haevermaet - hans.vanhaevermaet@uantwerpen.be.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.