Postdoctoral Researcher for the Einstein Telescope Project at Nikhef National Institute for Subatomic Physics (NIKHEF) in Netherlands

The National Institute for Subatomic Physics (NIKHEF) in the Netherlands is offering a two-year postdoctoral position focused on the Einstein Telescope (ET) project. Nikhef is a leading research institute in subatomic physics, collaborating with six major Dutch universities and the NWO-I Foundation. The institute is renowned for its participation in international experiments such as ALICE, ATLAS, LHCb at CERN, and the Virgo gravitational waves interferometer, among others. With a vibrant community of over 220 physicists and 80 engineers and technicians, Nikhef provides an open, international, and technically advanced environment for research.

The Einstein Telescope aims to extend the lower limit of its detection band to about 3 Hz by employing cryogenic cooling of its test masses, thereby reducing thermal noise and low-frequency motion. The successful candidate will develop techniques to reduce low-frequency vibrations throughout the ET suspension chain, including systems operating at cryogenic temperatures. The position is part of collaborative projects involving Nikhef, Leiden University, Delft University of Technology, SRON, and several industrial partners, focusing on (cryogenic) vibration isolation, sensing, and actuation instrumentation.

Depending on your interests, research topics may include simulation and design of superconducting coils, active vibration isolation for cryogenic cooling lines, interferometric inertial sensor readout development, and research in cryogenic vibration isolation instrumentation. The role also involves communication and collaboration with industrial partners and assisting in the supervision of a PhD student at Leiden University.

Nikhef offers advanced workshops in mechanics and electronics, clean rooms, and a strong technical infrastructure. The Amsterdam gravitational-wave group has expertise in seismic attenuation, sensor development, interferometer simulation, computing, and data analysis. The group is actively involved in the global effort to advance gravitational-wave instrumentation, providing opportunities for international collaboration.

Applicants must have a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, a professional command of English, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Experience in gravitational-wave instrumentation, cryogenics, vibration isolation, and/or superconductivity is appreciated. The position is funded by the NWO-I foundation, offering excellent employment conditions including extra months’ salary payment in May and December.

Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file containing a CV, motivation letter, publication list, and contact details for two references. The deadline is 22 February 2026, but the position may be filled earlier if a suitable candidate is found. For further information, contact Dr. Joris van Heijningen at [email protected].