PhD Position in Extreme-Precision Radial Velocity Instrumentation for Earth-like Exoplanets (HARVY Project)

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

Radial velocity techniques using extreme-precision radial velocity (EPRV) spectrographs are currently the only mature and demonstrated methods capable of detecting Earth-like planets around nearby stars without relying on favourable transit geometry. However, stellar variability typically produces signals an order of magnitude larger than those induced by small, temperate rocky planets, posing a fundamental limitation to systematic surveys. This challenge has motivated a new observational paradigm, pioneered by the Terra Hunting Experiment consortium (https://www.terrahunting.org')).

Project background

The HARVY project builds on the Terra Hunting legacy with the objective of delivering a new reference design for an EPRV spectrograph that can be manufactured economically and deployed in series. HARVY is conceived for installation on a worldwide network of approximately ten 1.5-m telescopes, enabling a systematic survey of hundreds of Sun-like stars-far beyond the scale accessible to single-facility programmes- while significantly increasing access to world-class EPRV data for the exoplanet community. This is achieved by maximising the efficiency of every component of the spectrograph, allowing extreme radial-velocity precision to be reached with a compact, scalable, and cost-effective design.

Job description

The PhD candidate 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)

Workplace

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: E-Mail schreiben

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.

Apply online now

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