Optical Engineer / Optical Engineeress

Institute for Particle Physics and Astrophysics, Exoplanet & Habitability

The LIFE Space Mission is spearheaded by the Exoplanets & Habitability Group at ETH Zurich, and it has now reached an exciting juncture where the project is poised to advance to the next stage. Following the initial formulation of the mission baseline description and requirements, as well as recent successes with the ETH-owned laboratory testbed, finalizing a comprehensive mission concept study is of utmost priority. This study will solidify the required satellite architecture, conduct essential technical evaluations, and complete the overall mission development plan and implementation strategy to propel the LIFE Space Mission toward a successful launch and operational phase. To support this mission concept study, we are pleased to announce two openings in Optical Engineering.

LIFE unites scientists, engineers, and communicators driven by curiosity and the quest for life beyond our Solar System. We believe this pursuit is best achieved through building an inclusive workplace where individuals from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, beliefs, ideas, and experiences can collaborate to confront this generational challenge together.

We acknowledge that some individuals may hesitate to apply if they do not meet all the listed criteria. Research indicates that this is especially true for women. If you believe your profile aligns well with this position, we encourage you to apply online using the form below even if you do not meet every qualification listed.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and analyze optical systems for space interferometry.
• Perform optical simulations, performance modeling, and tolerance analyses.
• Conduct polarization analyses and assessments of interferometric optical systems.
• Execute straylight and ghost analyses to ensure compliance with high-contrast performance requirements.
• Contribute to the development of beam combination and wavefront control concepts.
• Support laboratory experiments and technology demonstrators.
• Interface optical designs with mechanical, thermal, and control system constraints.
• Assist in calibration, validation, verification, and test activities.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and scientific publications.
• Contribute to mission studies and proposal activities.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field.
• Solid background in physical optics; experience in interferometry and/or cryogenic optics is advantageous.
• Extensive experience with optical design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, FRED, ASAP, or equivalent).
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar.
• Ability to work independently as well as in interdisciplinary teams.
• Very good command of English (written and spoken).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with space optics or astronomical instrumentation.
• Knowledge of polarization effects in optical systems and straylight mitigation strategies.
• Experience with laboratory optical setups and optical metrology.

What We Offer

A stimulating research environment at a world-leading technical university, participation in a high-profile international space mission concept, access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and competitive employment conditions and social benefits according to ETH Zurich standards. The contract will commence as a fixed-term contract (1+1 year) with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• A motivation letter (1-page max).
• Your CV.
• Relevant diplomas.

Further information about the LIFE Space Mission can be found on our website. For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Adrian Glauser, Co-PI and Technical Lead of the LIFE mission, at glauser@phys.ethz.ch (no applications).

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will 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 Zurich apply.