Research Associate for the Project “Development of distributed fiber sensors using digitally-enhanced interferometry ” in the Project “High-precision optimal hybrid sensor networks for Newtonian noise mitigation in the ET” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute of Experimental Physics and Hamburg Observatory

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.01.2027, fixed until 30.06.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-10-31

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

The position is part of the project High-Precision Optimal Hybrid Sensor Networks within the joint project Newtonian Noise Cancelling Headphones of the German Einstein Telescope Preparatory Programme. The joint project focuses on the mitigation of environmental, seismic and Newtonian noise, which would otherwise limit the sensitivity and the astrophysical reach of the observatory. Achieving these ambitious sensitivity goals for the Einstein Telescope requires the development of advanced, high-precision distributed seismic sensors capable of measuring seismic wavefields and environmental disturbances with unprecedented precision over large spatial scales, thereby enabling active noise mitigation.

In recent years, the research team in Hamburg has developed extensive expertise in precision laser interferometry, including deep frequency modulation interferometry and digitally-enhanced interferometry. These technologies are being developed for applications such as compact optical sensing, multiplexed interferometric readout, ring laser gyroscope and absolute distance measurements, as well as for precision metrology in gravitational-wave detectors as auxiliary sensors and optical benches, including those for LISA and ALPS II. Together with the WAVE initiative Hamburg, the team has established a strong research programme in large-scale fiber-optic sensing using commercial distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) systems, which the team deployed recently at LIGO Hanford to investigate its potential as environmental monitoring system. Building on this expertise, the project aims to develop next-generation distributed fiber sensing systems outperforming commercial DAS systems.

The research of this position focuses on developing high-precision distributed fiber-optic sensing systems based on digitally-enhanced interferometry in a portable and robust optical architecture. Responsibilities include improving interferometric readout systems, implementing an FPGA-based multi-channel phasemeter, developing engineered fiber sensors and calibration methods, as well as experimentally testing the developed technologies through laboratory studies and measurement campaigns at gravitational wave facilities. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of sensing technologies for future gravitational wave detectors in close collaboration with national and international partners.

The position will be situated in the newly established research group for Gravitational and Astroparticle Physics at the University of Hamburg. The group conducts research in precision optical metrology for experiments in gravitational wave and astroparticle physics, including the Einstein Telescope, LIGO, and the Any Light Particle Search II (ALPS II) experiment at DESY and coordinates the WAVE initiative Hamburg. Current research focuses on laser interferometry, quantum sensing, optical-, seismic- and particle simulations, fiber sensing, and Newtonian noise mitigation.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to become a member of the Cluster of Excellence Quantum Universe and benefit from its scientific network, academic and transferable-skills training, and career development support. They will join the Einstein Telescope Collaboration and will also have the opportunity to join the LIGO Scientific Collaboration. The position includes participation in international collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

The following skills are mandatory

• excellent command of the English language and the ability to communicate and engage in an international team environment
• experience in optics, laser interferometry, FPGA programming, data analysis and laser laboratories

Prior experience in several of the following fields is beneficial: noise analysis, feedback control systems, precision measurements, gravitational-wave detectors, scientific programming in C++ and Python.

Outstanding candidates will demonstrate a high level of intrinsic motivation, scientific creativity, the ability to work independently, a structured and responsible approach to research, excellent communication skills, and strong teamwork abilities in an international research environment.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Katharina-Sophie Isleif

Celine Hadziioannou

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

265

Application deadline

2026-10-31

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.