PhD Position in Extreme-Precision Radial Velocity Instrumentation for Earth-like Exoplanets (HARVY Project)
Job description
The PhD student will play a central role in advancing the HARVY optical design. Building on an existing concept study, the project focuses on the evaluation, characterisation, and optimisation of key novel optical components. The primary objective of the PhD is to actively participate in the instrument construction phase, leading the design and manufacturing of key subsystems, and contributing to the preparation and execution of the on-sky test campaign planned for 2028.
The successful candidate will work at the interface of astrophysics, optical design, and astronomical instrumentation in a world-leading research environment at ETH Zurich. The project contributes directly to the long-term goal of detecting true Earth analogues around nearby stars and to establishing robust target lists for future exoplanet characterisation missions, such as NASA's Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) and ESA's LIFE mission.
Keywords
Exoplanets; Radial Velocity; Extreme Precision Spectroscopy; Spectrographs; Stellar Variability; Astronomical Instrumentation; Optical Design
Skills Development
During the PhD, the student will develop expertise in:
Extreme-precision radial velocity (EPRV) instrumentation
Optical design and tolerance analysis of high-resolution spectrographs
Throughput optimisation and system-level performance modelling
Characterisation and testing of novel optical components and subsystems
Instrumental stability analysis and mitigation of systematic effects
Long-term time-series considerations for stellar variability mitigation
Laboratory validation, integration, and on-sky commissioning of astronomical instruments
Scientific writing, proposal preparation, and international collaboration
Start Date and Duration
The PhD position (100%) is expected to start in September 2026 (or to be agreed with the successful candidate). The initial appointment is for four years, subject to satisfactory progress, in line with ETH Zürich doctoral regulations.
Funding
The PhD position is fully funded and based at ETH Zürich. The successful candidate will be employed as a doctoral researcher at ETH Zürich under Swiss employment conditions. Salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zürich and Swiss federal regulations.
Profile
Master's degree in physics, astrophysics, optics, or a closely related field
Strong interest in astronomical instrumentation and exoplanet science
Experience or demonstrated interest in optical design, spectroscopy, or precision measurements
Programming and data analysis skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, Zemax, or similar tools)
Ability to work independently and as part of an international research team
Fluency in English (spoken and written)
We offer
Fully funded position with competitive salary according to ETH standards
Interdisciplinary and international research environment
You can expect numerous benefits
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity and sustainability
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. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
Applicants should submit the following documents as a single PDF file until the 15th of April 2026:
A cover letter describing motivation and relevant experience
A curriculum vitae
Academic transcripts (bachelor’s and master’s degrees)
A brief statement of research interests (max. 1 page)
Contact details of two referees.
Further information can be found on our group website and the website of the ETH Physics Department and the Institute for Particle Physics and Astrophysics. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Clark Baker, email: bakerc@ethz.ch
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. Applications from all qualified candidates are strongly encouraged.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.
About ETH Zürich
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.
