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PhD call for the development of optomechanical sensors for space missions
The IEEC (Institute of Space Studies of Catalonia) was established in February 1996 as a private non-profit foundation (NPO) to promote R&D in the space field in Catalonia. The IEEC is a research institute that studies all areas of knowledge and technologies applied to the space sector and space sciences, including astrophysics, cosmology, planetary science, Earth observation, navigation and space engineering. Its mission is to push the frontiers of space research from the scientific and technological fields for the maximum benefit of society. It should also be noted that the Foundation is attached to the Generalitat de Catalunya (Catalan Government) and forms part of its institutional public sector due to the fact that the Generalitat has a majority participation in the Board of Trustees of the IEEC.
Introduction
The Gravitational Astronomy Group at the Institute of Space Sciences is leading Spain’s contribution to the future space-based gravitational observatory, LISA (Laser Interferometer Space Antenna), a mission by the ESA scheduled for launch in 2035. Its goal is to detect gravitational radiation by deploying three satellites 2.5 million kilometers apart, forming a triangle. The team’s contribution to the mission is the Science Diagnostic Subsystem (SDS), a set of sensors designed to monitor the onboard environment of the satellites with extremely high precision. The mission is currently in its industrial development phase.
Among its research lines, the group is developing new precision measurement technologies for future application in space missions. Current development in optomechanical resonators are set to revolutionize the field of precision measurements. These devices act as high-purity oscillators (with a quality factor of up to ~10¹⁰), allowing them to be used as high-precision references. Their use has found applications in laser stabilization, biochemical sensors, telecommunications, and astronomical observations. Since their size ranges from micrometers to millimeters, they allow for compact design, and because the material used in their fabrication is a crystalline substrate, they are suitable for high-sensitivity applications where the sensor does not interfere with the measurement, as in the aforementioned cases.
Our group promotes a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, gender, nationality, race, religion, or sexual orientation. We strongly encourage women and underrepresented minorities in the physical sciences to apply.
Description of position
- Position: 2. PhD call for the development of optomechanical sensors for space missions
- Professional group: Group III. Scientific Staff
- Professional category Researcher in Training
- Working hours: 37’5 hores/setmana
- Working location: Institute of Space Sciences, Carrer de Can Magrans s/n, Campus UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain
Functions
The pre-doctoral contract is aimed at simultaneously performing, on the one hand, research tasks in a specific and innovative project, and on the other hand, the set of activities, integral to the doctoral program, leading to the acquisition of the skills and abilities necessary to obtain the official university Doctoral degree, without being required to carry out any other activity that distorts the research and training purpose of the contract.
The goal of the PhD candidate is the experimental study of WGMR (Whispering Gallery Mode Resonator) sensors surpassing the current precision limit in the very low-frequency band, with a compact design suitable for application in high-sensitivity space experiments.
The selected candidate will have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Developing new sensing techniques based on opto-mechanical resonators focusing on its operations in ultra-stable conditions.
- Study and model noise contributions (power, frequency) focusing on the millhertz performance.
- Study its miniaturization and implementation in integrated photonics.
- Designing, implementing and testing optical setups in clean room conditions.
- Writing and publishing scientific articles presenting research findings in peer-reviewed journals and disseminating results at national and international conferences.
Participation requirements and selection criteria
The following criteria will be assessed during the selection process:
- Training:
- Bachelor’s degree in physics or engineering
- Master's degree in engineering, photonics or equivalent.
- Once the selection process has been completed, enrolment in a doctoral program at one of the universities around the IEEC will be an essential requirement to formalize the contract.
The following aspects will be considered desirable merits:
- Relevant research experience, preferably in a experimental areas.
- Knowledge in data analysis and programming (preferably Python).
- Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to develop innovative solutions.
- Effective communication skills in English, both written and oral.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
- Potential for scientific dissemination through publications and conference presentations.
Contact and deadline
Interested persons who meet the requirements can send the following documents:
- Motivation letter.
- CV
- One letter of reference.
- Academic record, both from undergraduate and master's studies.
All documents shall be sent in PDF format to the e-mail address: RecursosHumans@ieec.cat indicating the text "Surname and Name_ OF_IEEC_202_2025" in the subject line of the e-mail. Letter of reference can be sent to the same e-mail address by the referees, with the name of the person to whom it refers clearly indicated in the subject line.
The reception of applications ends on
Selection procedure
Initially, a verification of the requirements of participation will be carried out and a first selection of candidates will be made based on the documents contributed. Next, if necessary, the shortlisted candidates may be called to a personal interview to expand the detailed information in the curriculum and assess aspects related to professional skills.
Interested persons shall have the originals of the certificates demonstrating the training and work experience mentioned in the CV and shall submit them if required.
In compliance with the LISMI, the IEEC will reserve positions for candidates who can certify a disability of 33% or more, provided they are suitable for carrying out the required duties.