The Gravitational Physics Research led by Prof. Michele Vallisneri in the Dept. of Physics at ETH Zurich invites applications for one or more 3-year postdoctoral positions on novel statistical and computational approaches for gravitational-wave data analysis with applications to LISA and pulsar-timing-array data analysis. 

In 2015, the LIGO–Virgo collaboration achieved the first detection of high-frequency gravitational radiation, confirming Einstein’s 1916 results, and establishing the existence of binaries of stellar-mass black holes. The next frontier – the observation of a background of very-low-frequency gravitational waves – was reached in 2023 by pulsar-timing- rray programs (NANOGrav and its international counterparts). Continuing pulsar-timing observations will clarify the origin, spectral features, and multipolar structure of the background, and may also reveal the presence of nearby individual sources. In the mid 2030s, the space mission LISA will begin to observe thousands of low-frequency gravitational-wave sources, including ultracompact stellar-remnant binaries in the Milky Way, and the mergers of massive-black-hole binaries across cosmic time. The newly formed Gravitational Physics Research Group at ETH Zurich leads the implementation of the Swiss LISA Data Center (in collaboration with Profs. Giardini and Robertsson’s research groups in the Dept. of Earth and Planetary Science), and participates in the science activities of the NANOGrav pulsar-timing consortium. 

You will work within the Gravitational Physics group at ETH Zurich and contribute to our LISA effort, our NANOGrav effort, or both:

• For LISA, you will join in the formulation, development, and testing of novel algorithms and mathematical techniques for the LISA global-fit problem, and for the integration of global-fit products into source catalogs. You will interact with researchers and engineers in the Swiss LISA Data Center and in LISA Data Centers across Europe, in the ETH AI Center, and in ETH Zurich | Space. Your contributions will inform the implementation of data-analysis pipelines and other analysis software for LISA, and they will help deliver the scientific results of the mission. 
• For NANOGrav, you will contribute to the statistical formulation of pulsar-timing-array searches for gravitational waves; to the development of the Discovery analysis code; and to the analysis of current and future datasets. You will investigate novel techniques to model timing noise and mismodeling bias in the characterization of gravitational waves.  You will interact with researchers in the international pulsar-timing-array community and in the ETH AI Center. Your results will help establish very-low-frequency gravitational-wave measurements as a new tool to understand the Universe.

In your research, you will experiment with a range of computational and mathematical techniques, including neural-network-based inference, information-theoretical approaches, and GPU- and AI-based acceleration. You will assist in the supervision of PhD theses and Master student projects. You will participate in outreach opportunities and in teaching at the undergraduate and Master level. You will join a team working on the future of gravitational-wave science through technical development, strategic planning, and attention to the long-term cultural impact of our field.

• hold a PhD degree in physics or similar discipline by the starting date
• enjoy theoretical physics, applied mathematics, and problem solving
• have a strong record of publications and scientific presentations
• be a committed team player with good communication skills
• be proficient in spoken and written English
• have excellent computer and programming skills

We offer a dynamic, challenging role within an inspiring environment at a world-renowned university. Career development is central to our culture, and we are committed to supporting your professional growth.

Postdocs at ETH Zurich earn competitive salaries and are eligible for both social security and retirement benefits (the current annual gross salary starts at CHF 92'200 in the first year and goes up to CHF 101'600 in the third and fourth year). Funding for attending international conferences is available and potential publication costs will be covered. 

ETH Zurich is regularly rated as the best university in continental Europe and Zurich itself is one of the most livable and attractive cities worldwide. Many people at ETH Zurich and within our research group have an international background. English is our common language.

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Complete applications received by January 15, 2025 will receive full consideration. The position is open to candidates from all countries. The starting date is negotiable, but should be no later than September 2025.

We look forward to receiving your application, as a single PDF, including:

• curriculum vitae and publication list
• a brief statement of research interests and experience (2 page max)
• recommendation letters from three referees
• PhD degree certificate (if already available)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

Questions regarding the position (but no applications) should be directed to Prof. Dr. Michele Vallisneri, e-mail: mvallisneri@ethz.ch.

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.