Research position in planetary science – cosmic dust / heliosphere 100%, Zurich, fixed-term 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 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. Wenn Sie sich auf diese Stelle bewerben, erwähnen Sie bitte dass Sie sie auf Universitoxy gesehen haben.

Research position in planetary science – cosmic dust / heliosphere

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

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

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.

Wenn Sie sich auf diese Stelle bewerben, erwähnen Sie bitte dass Sie sie auf Universitoxy gesehen haben.

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