Postdoctoral researcher in scattered light calibration for gravitational wave detectors

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- University of Antwerp

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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 cooperationbe 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 .
Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s .

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 or as soon as possible after that date.
Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the 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 .