Optical Engineer / Optical Engineeress

Institute for Particle Physics and Astrophysics, Exoplanet & Habitability

The LIFE Space Mission, led by the Exoplanets & Habitability Group at ETH Zurich, is at an exciting juncture where the project is ready to advance to the next phase. Following the creation of an initial mission baseline description and recent achievements with the ETH-owned laboratory testbed, the completion of a comprehensive mission concept study is our highest priority. This study will finalize the required satellite architecture, conduct essential technical assessments, and outline the overall mission development plan and implementation strategy to ensure the successful launch and operation of the LIFE Space Mission. To facilitate this mission concept study, we are seeking two talented Optical Engineers.

LIFE brings together a community of scientists, engineers, and communicators driven by curiosity and the quest for life beyond our Solar System. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where teams with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, beliefs, ideas, and experiences can collaborate on this generational challenge. We understand that potential applicants may hesitate to apply if they do not meet all listed requirements. If you believe that your profile aligns well with this position, we encourage you to apply even if you do not fulfill every qualification.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and analyze optical systems for space interferometry
• Conduct optical simulations, performance modeling, and tolerance analyses
• Perform polarization analyses and assessments of interferometric optical systems
• Conduct stray light and ghost analysis to ensure compliance with high-contrast performance requirements
• Contribute to the development of beam combination and wavefront control concepts
• Support laboratory experiments and technology demonstrations
• Interface optical designs with mechanical, thermal, and control system constraints
• Assist in calibration, validation, verification, and testing 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)
• Proficiency in programming (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
• Ability to work independently as well as within interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent command of English (both written and spoken)

Preferred Qualifications

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

By joining us, you will enjoy a stimulating research environment at a world-leading technical university, participate in a high-profile international space mission concept, and access state-of-the-art research infrastructure. We offer competitive employment conditions and social benefits in line with ETH Zurich standards. The contract will commence as a fixed-term position (1+1 year) with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

Apply online using the form below. Please ensure that your application includes the following documents:

• A motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
• Your CV
• Relevant diplomas

For further information about the LIFE Space Mission, please visit our website. If you have questions regarding the position or for technical inquiries, you can reach out to Dr. Adrian Glauser, Co-PI and Technical Lead of the LIFE mission, at glauser@phys.ethz.ch (no applications).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.