The Faculty of Science, Leiden Institute of Physics and the National institute for subatomic physics Nikhef is looking for a

PhD candidate, Cryogenic Vibration Isolation for Einstein Telescope, Quantum Science, and Industry

Leiden Institute of Physics hosts several research groups performing ultra-low temperature experiments, that simultaneously require ultra-low vibration levels. Nikhef is a member of the European Gravitational-wave Observatory (EGO) hosting the Virgo detector and is a leading research group within the Einstein Telescope (https://www.einsteintelescope-emr.eu/) collaboration.

The Einstein Telescope (ET) aims to employ cryogenic cooling of its test masses to lower coating and suspension thermals noise such that the detection band lower limit can be stretched to about 3 Hz. The cooling machinery and heat links will induce additional vibrations that must be shielded or otherwise reduced.

In this PhD position, jointly supervised by Tjerk Oosterkamp and Bas Hensen at Leiden University and Joris van Heijningen at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam/Nikhef, you will develop novel techniques to reduce low frequency vibrations at cryogenic temperatures. This position is funded by the “R&D-regeling technologiedomeinen Einstein Telescope”. You will be working mainly in Leiden.

Key responsibilities

• Finite element modelling of vibration filter designs;
• Working together with the fine-mechanics departments at Leiden and Nikhef to build such systems;
• Measurement and analysis of the device performance at cryogenic temperatures in one of the Leiden dilution refrigerators;
• Co-developing magnetically levitated cryogenic 6D acceleration sensors to characterize vibrations at millikelvin temperatures;
• Communicating closely and effectively with the team members and project partners (Onnes Technologies, SRON, JPE B.V.) about progress and findings.
• Assist with teaching and student supervision;
• Complete a PhD thesis within four years (1.0 FTE).

Selection Criteria:

• Research Master, MSc or similar in mechanical engineering, physics or a related field.
• Excellent command of the English language coupled with excellent communication skills;
• Well- developed analytic and organisational skills;
• The ability to work independently and in a group/collaboration.
• Skills in finite element analysis, measurement and control systems, superconductivity (desirable)

We offer

• To work at an insitute with great facilities for your research;
• A global network of gravitational-wave researchers for you to engage with.
• A salary of initially € 2.872,00 and maximally € 3.670,00 gross per month in the fourth year, for full-time employment; month (pay scale P in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses(8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break.

Research at The Faculty of Science and Nikhef

The Faculty of Science at Leiden University is a world-class faculty where staff and students work together in a dynamic international environment. It is a faculty where personal and academic development are top priorities. Our people are committed to expand fundamental knowledge by curiosity and to look beyond the borders of their own discipline; their aim is to benefit science, and to make a contribution to addressing the major societal challenges of the future. The National institute for subatomic physics Nikhef (www.nikhef.nl) is an open, diverse organisation with an international focus and a strong technical slant. About 220 physicists and 80 engineers and technicians daily shape the Dutch participation in international experiments in particle physics, e.g. at CERN, and astroparticle physics, such as cosmic rays and gravitational waves. This makes Nikhef a vibrant astro-particle physics research community. Nikhef has advanced workshops (mechanics and electronics) and several clean rooms.

For more information, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science and https://workingat.leiden.edu/

How to apply
Are you enthusiastic about this vacancy? We are looking forward to get to know you. While the deadline for application is set to 25 October 2024, the position can be filled earlier in case a good candidate is found.

Please submit your application online through the blue button below. Please ensure that you upload the following additional documents:
Applications are written in English and include a

• Cover Letter indicating the motivation for the project (max one A4)
• Curriculum vitae
• Copies of transcripts of degrees obtained
• Contact details of two references that could be contacted after the deadline
• Applications should be submitted as a single pdf file.