Research position in planetary science - cosmic dust / heliosphere 100%, Zurich, fixed-term
ETH Zürich
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Research position in planetary science – cosmic dust / heliosphere
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
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The Astrophysical dust group at the ETH Zürich focuses on the science of cosmic dust nearby and inside the solar
system and on the dust interaction with the solar wind plasma. The main methods used are computer simulations for
studying dust dynamics and analysing in situ measurements by spacecraft that carry a dust detector on board. We
collaborate with researchers in Switzerland and abroad.
Project background
Interstellar dust moves through the solar system due to the relative motion between the solar system and its immediate
interstellar neighbourhood. We can measure these dust particles’ mass, composition and flow direction inside the solar
system, but part of these dust particles are filtered out of the heliopshere by electromagnetic forces. We simulate the
motion of these dust particles and make predictions for fluxes for future and past missions, and compare these to
available data in order to constrain particle and heliosphere characteristics. This way, we contribute to the
exploration of our immediate interstellar surroundings, the distant heliosphere, and the pristine interstellar matter
in our cosmic “backyard”.
Job description
The candidate will support the modelling of interstellar dust through the heliosphere, the writing of publications,
and other smaller tasks within the group.
Profile
Skills and knowledge we are looking for are:
- Programming skills; experience in programming in Julia or a strong willingness to learn
- Strong English speaking and writing skills
- Able to work well in a team
- Heliosphere / plasma science, cosmic dust science, astrodynamics
- Parallel processing (CPU/GPU), numerical modeling/Monte Carlo simulations are an asset
- Visualisation skills are an asset
- Careful way of working, checking of results
Candidates can have an M.Sc. degree in STEM, or a Ph.D. degree in STEM, preferably in planetary science or aerospace
engineering or a related field.
Candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Also candidates who do not completely
fulfill the mentioned skills sought for, are encouraged to apply. The position will be open until filled, and is for a
period until the end of 2025.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
We offer a stimulating work environment in a small team of highly motivated space scientists, working together to
explore space in a cross-disciplinary way. We have many national and international contacts, are part of the Swiss NCCR
PlanetS, and we support your professional development. We highly value integrity, teamwork, openness, scientific
curiosity, diversity and empathy.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
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.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents (in 1 pdf):ZCover letter (1 page),
briefly explaining your background, your interest in this position, and career goals
- Contact information of 3 potential referees
- Curriculum Vitae
- Publication list
- A copy of your M.sc. or PhD certificate
- Coding sample / Github account / any other relevant information you may wish to share
Further information about the Astrodust Research Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position
should be directed to Dr. Veerle Sterken, vsterken *at* ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via
email or postal services will not be considered.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial
intelligence.
For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurichapply.
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.
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.
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
print Drucken
The Astrophysical dust group at the ETH Zürich focuses on the science of cosmic dust nearby and inside the solar
system and on the dust interaction with the solar wind plasma. The main methods used are computer simulations for
studying dust dynamics and analysing in situ measurements by spacecraft that carry a dust detector on board. We
collaborate with researchers in Switzerland and abroad.
Project background
Interstellar dust moves through the solar system due to the relative motion between the solar system and its immediate
interstellar neighbourhood. We can measure these dust particles’ mass, composition and flow direction inside the solar
system, but part of these dust particles are filtered out of the heliopshere by electromagnetic forces. We simulate the
motion of these dust particles and make predictions for fluxes for future and past missions, and compare these to
available data in order to constrain particle and heliosphere characteristics. This way, we contribute to the
exploration of our immediate interstellar surroundings, the distant heliosphere, and the pristine interstellar matter
in our cosmic “backyard”.
Job description
The candidate will support the modelling of interstellar dust through the heliosphere, the writing of publications,
and other smaller tasks within the group.
Profile
Skills and knowledge we are looking for are:
- Programming skills; experience in programming in Julia or a strong willingness to learn
- Strong English speaking and writing skills
- Able to work well in a team
- Heliosphere / plasma science, cosmic dust science, astrodynamics
- Parallel processing (CPU/GPU), numerical modeling/Monte Carlo simulations are an asset
- Visualisation skills are an asset
- Careful way of working, checking of results
Candidates can have an M.Sc. degree in STEM, or a Ph.D. degree in STEM, preferably in planetary science or aerospace
engineering or a related field.
Candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Also candidates who do not completely
fulfill the mentioned skills sought for, are encouraged to apply. The position will be open until filled, and is for a
period until the end of 2025.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
We offer a stimulating work environment in a small team of highly motivated space scientists, working together to
explore space in a cross-disciplinary way. We have many national and international contacts, are part of the Swiss NCCR
PlanetS, and we support your professional development. We highly value integrity, teamwork, openness, scientific
curiosity, diversity and empathy.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
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.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents (in 1 pdf):ZCover letter (1 page),
briefly explaining your background, your interest in this position, and career goals
- Contact information of 3 potential referees
- Curriculum Vitae
- Publication list
- A copy of your M.sc. or PhD certificate
- Coding sample / Github account / any other relevant information you may wish to share
Further information about the Astrodust Research Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position
should be directed to Dr. Veerle Sterken, vsterken *at* ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via
email or postal services will not be considered.
We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial
intelligence.
For recruitment services the GTC of ETH Zurichapply.
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.
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.