Postdoctoral researcher in UHV technology for gravitational wave detectors at University of Antwerp
16.06.2026
Postdoctoral researcher in UHV technology for gravitational wave detectors at University of Antwerp
The Particle Physics group of the University of Antwerp invites applications for a postdoctoral position in gravitational wave instrumentation, with a focus on ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology for third-generation gravitational wave detectors. The group is an active member of the Virgo, Einstein Telescope (ET), and ETpathfinder collaborations, and coordinates the beam pipe vacuum work package within ET’s Instrument Science Board. The successful candidate will contribute to the construction, commissioning, and scientific exploitation of a new UHV testing and cleanroom infrastructure at UAntwerp. Third-generation observatories such as ET require residual gas pressures of ~10⁻¹⁰ mbar and exceptional cleanliness with respect to heavy hydrocarbons (partial pressures ~10⁻¹⁴ mbar for amu > 100) to reach their sensitivity targets. Application deadline: July 31st 2026.