Research Associate / PhD Opportunity in Optical Testing and Signal Combinations for LISA Phasemeter University of Hamburg in Germany

Research Associate / PhD opportunity in Physics and Electrical Engineering at the University of Hamburg. The position is in the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute of Experimental Physics, within the research group for gravitational wave detection.

The project is titled “Optical testing and optimal signal combinations for the LISA ground-support equipment phasemeter” and focuses on optical testing of an electrical ground-support equipment version of the LISA phase readout system (phasemeter), based on the MicroTCA.4 standard. The successful candidate will also use multi-channel readout to study noise sources in a dedicated in-house optical experiment and investigate machine learning techniques for noise reduction. In addition, the role supports verification and testing of LISA engineering models and flight hardware in laboratories of national and international partners.

The work is embedded in a highly collaborative environment involving the German Aerospace Agency (DLR), DESY MSK, the LISA Consortium, and national/international partners. The broader research group works on metrology and instrumentation for ground- and space-based detectors such as the Einstein Telescope, LIGO, the Lunar Gravitational Wave Antenna (LGWA), and LISA, with a focus on laser interferometry, inertial sensing, seismic isolation, and digital readout and control.

This is a part-time research associate position (75% of standard working hours) at salary level EGR. 13 TV-L. The contract is fixed until September 30, 2029 and is pending approval of external funding. The post is suitable for candidates who want to pursue a doctoral degree in Physics at the University of Hamburg. Members may also join the Quantum Universe Research School (QURS), which offers academic and soft-skills training and career planning support.

Eligibility highlights: a university degree in a relevant field; excellent English communication skills; strong motivation and self-organization; and experience with laboratory experiments, ideally in gravitational wave detection and laser interferometry. Helpful background includes laser stabilization, opto-electronics, optics, noise analysis, space-based instrumentation, hardware development and testing, analogue/digital electronics, FPGA programming, and machine learning.

How to apply: submit your application via the online application form only. Required documents are a cover letter, CV, and copies of degree certificates. The application deadline is September 6, 2026.