PhD Fellowship in Physics and Computer Science (LISA Mission, Gravitational-Wave Data Analysis)

The University of Stavanger invites applications for a PhD Fellowship in Physics and Computer Science, based at the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Mathematics and Physics. This position is part of the UiS LISA Team, which is actively involved in the ESA-led Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) mission, focusing on gravitational-wave detection and analysis. The team is expanding and will welcome new members, including early-career scientists and software engineers, to contribute to two major deliverables: the deployment and development of Norway’s computational facility for the LISA ground segment, and the development and implementation of global-fit elements for analyzing the stochastic gravitational-wave background. The UiS LISA Team collaborates closely with national and international partners, including the Norwegian Space Agency and ESA, and forms part of the SPACT group, which conducts research in cosmology, particle physics, and astronomy. The PhD Fellow will focus on either cluster architecture development (Deliverable 1) or theoretical physics and LISA data analysis (Deliverable 2), depending on their background and interests. Deliverable 1 emphasizes inter-cluster communication security, data management, and gravitational-wave software development, while Deliverable 2 centers on theoretical physics, statistical methods, and the study of stochastic signals from cosmological sources. The position offers a three-year appointment with exclusive research duties, admission to the PhD program in Science and Technology, and access to career guidance. The research will strengthen expertise in theoretical physics, gravitational-wave data analysis, and large-scale computational facilities. Several research stays abroad are planned, with substantial funding allocated for these collaborations. Applicants must have a five-year master's degree in computer science or physics, or equivalent qualifications, with grades equivalent to or better than a B. English proficiency is required, demonstrated by TOEFL, IELTS, CAE/CPE, or PTE Academic scores unless exempt. Experience relevant to the deliverables, as well as skills in theoretical physics, astronomy, software engineering, distributed systems, data analysis, Infrastructure as Code, CI/CD pipelines, and container technologies, are highly valued. Motivation, research potential, independence, teamwork, creativity, structured work habits, and strong English skills are essential. The fellowship provides a competitive salary (NOK 550,800 gross/year), automatic membership in the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund, health and welfare benefits, gym and sports club membership, discounted public transport, guaranteed nursery places, and a relocation programme. Diversity is valued, and applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The University of Stavanger is committed to green and sustainable change, equitable social development, and international collaboration. To apply, submit your application via Jobbnorge, including a cover letter, CV, certificates/diplomas, Diploma Supplement or conversion scale if needed, documentation of English competence, and relevant publications or thesis abstract. Ensure all documents are in English or a Scandinavian language and compressed if over 100 MB. The deadline for applications is 9 April 2026. For further information, contact Bjørn Henrik Auestad ([email protected]) or Rosa Cam Andrade ([email protected]). More details and application links are available at Jobbnorge and Euraxess .