Postdoctoral Researcher in Interiors and Evolution of Sub-Neptunes — ETH Zürich

Full description

Postdoctoral Researcher in Interiors and Evolution of Sub-Neptunes

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to work on the interiors and long-term evolution of sub-Neptunes, within the Exoplanet Interiors and Atmospheres group lead by Prof. Caroline Dorn. The position is embedded in the NCCR Genesis, the National Centre of Competence in Research on the emergence of life in the Universe which gives access to a Switzerland-wide, deliberately interdisciplinary network spanning planetary physics, geochemistry, chemistry and biology. The position takes two years, but is extendable by a third year subject to NCCR Genesis procedures.

Project background

Recent work has unsettled the layered picture of sub-Neptune interiors. Evidence for extensive miscibility between metal, silicates and hydrogen and for the strong coupling between deep interiors and observable envelopes, suggests that the compositional boundaries these planets are usually modelled with may not exist. This opens a set of questions around miscibility, demixing, and chemistry-driven convection, as well as volatile exchange between magma oceans and envelopes, and how all of this imprints on the observational part of the atmosphere.

We deliberately do not prescribe a narrow project, the directions above describe the territory, not the destination. We are interested in hearing which questions you want to pursue and what you would build to answer them. Applicants are asked to sketch their own ideas in the application

Job description

• Improve atmosphere-interior evolution models tailored to sub-Neptunes
• Investigate how interior mixing imprints on observable atmosphere
• Link modeling results to spectroscopically observed atmospheres
• Build frameworks to analyse populations of observed sub-Neptunes to test formation hypothesis

Profile

• PhD in astrophysics, planetary science, geophysics, physics or a closely related field, completed by the start date
• Strong scientific programming in Python, and comfortable working with version control (git) in a collaborative codebase
• Fluent, critical use of AI-assisted tools in research and code development, we treat these as part of the standard toolkit and expect them to be used with judgement
• Fortran is useful, as parts of our modelling infrastructure rely on it, but is not a requirement
• Experience in one or more of: planetary interior or structure modelling, thermal evolution, high-pressure equations of state, atmospheric modelling, magma-ocean chemistry, or statistical inference
• Independence, curiosity, and an interest in working across disciplinary boundaries

We offer

An independent research position in a group working across interior structure, atmospheric characterisation and magma-ocean chemistry, with links to the PLATO mission and JWST programmes. ETH Zurich offers an outstanding research environment, competitive salary and benefits according to ETH regulations, and support for conference travel, computing and career development. Zurich consistently ranks among the world’s most liveable cities.

We value diversity and sustainability

In line with our values , ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future .

Curious? So are we.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following document as a single PDF:

• A CV with publication list (include GPA for educational degrees)
• A list of publications, a statement of research interests (max. 1 page) that includes your own ideas for the project
• Names and contact details of two or three referees

Further information about Department of Physics can be found on our Website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Dorn, [email protected] (no applications).

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

The review of applications will begin 15th of October and continue until the position is filled. Start date is flexible, ideally May 2027. Informal enquiries before applying are welcome via email to the group leader. We would like to point out that the pre-selection is carried out by the responsible recruiters and not by artificial intelligence.

About ETH Zürich

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

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