Postdoc (m/f/d) | Precision interferometry in gravitational wave detectors

 The Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute) is the largest research institute in the world, specializing in general relativity and beyond. The institute is located in Potsdam and Hanover, where it closely collaborates with the Leibniz Universität Hannover. MPI in Hanover is looking for a Postdoc (m/f/d) for precision interferometry in gravitational wave detectors.

Our research

The Albert Einstein Institute (AEI) offers a unique research environment with groups working in ground- and space-based laser interferometry, laser development, non-classical light sources, modern control, and gravitational wave data analysis. AEI researchers are involved in all operating and planned gravitational wave detectors worldwide. It is one of the world-leading gravitational wave detector instrumentation institutions and offers high-class optics laboratories, professional electronics, and mechanical workshops.

The open position is part of the cooperative project Glass Technologies for the Einstein Telescope of the AEI in Hanover and the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering. The Einstein Telescope is a planned gravitational wave observatory in Europe, and AEI is involved in various research activities to make it a reality. Within our project, we will develop critical technologies for the Einstein Telescope seismic isolation, such as integrating Meta-lens structures with monolithic fiber collimators. In addition, numerical and analytic modeling will be performed to define requirements for the instrumentation.  

Your profile

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in physics, or equivalent, and should have one or more of the following skills: 

• Extensive experience with high precision optics, optical systems, and precision metrology.
• Excellent organizational skills and experience in mentoring students.
• Analytical analysis and numerical simulations of physical systems.
• Data processing and analysis under the strict application of good scientific practice.

We are particularly interested in hiring motivated, communicative, and creative applicants with excellent analytical thinking. 

We offer

The successful candidate will be part of the Glass Technologies for the Einstein Telescope project with substantial funding for experimental research. The project did just begin in January 2022. This will give the successful applicant ample opportunity to shape the project as envisioned.

Payment is according to 100% of the pay scale of public services in Germany TVöD Bund E13. The contract is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension.

The Max Planck Society is committed to employing more severely disabled people. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, nationality, skin color, origin, religion and ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation, and identity.

Your application

Please upload your application documents combined into a single PDF file on our application portal. It should include a cover letter, your CV and publication list, Ph.D. certificate or the tentative date of graduation. Additionally, upload your Ph.D. or master thesis. One letter of reference should be requested through or application portal. Please get in contact with Sina Köhlenbeck (Sina.Koehlenbeck@aei.mpg.de) for further information. The position is open until filled.

Please note the data protection information.