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

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 maximizing 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 student 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.

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 as agreed with the successful candidate). The initial appointment is for four years, subject to satisfactory progress, in line with ETH Zurich doctoral regulations.

Funding

The PhD position is fully funded and based at ETH Zurich. The successful candidate will be employed as a doctoral researcher at ETH Zurich under Swiss employment conditions. Salary and social benefits are provided according to ETH Zurich 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

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing 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.

How to Apply

To apply, please complete the online application form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.