Responsibility for the Pre-Stabilized Laser (PSL) subsystem within the Virgo project, including the development, installation, and maintenance of the laser system at the detector site. Participation in laser developments for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors is also envisioned. The individual will be part of the "Lasers and Cavities" team and assigned to the Virgo project. Application deadline May 13th 2026.
The Research Engineer will primarily take full charge of the PSL subsystem, which involves: Implementing laser system upgrade projects: (i) designing and testing new laser systems in accordance with Virgo upgrade projects; (ii) planning different project phases; (iii) installing and maintaining laser systems used by the interferometer on-site.
Participating in the commissioning of the detector.
Conducting missions to the experiment site in Pisa, Italy, and participating in meetings for the Virgo Collaboration / VirgoLab / International Gravitational-wave Network (IGWN). Contributing to developments regarding future laser systems for 3rd generation gravitational-wave detectors. The Research Engineer may also provide technical support for experimental studies within the “Lasers and Cavities” team concerning 3rd generation detectors: Work on quantum aspects in detectors, including the demonstration of quantum radiation pressure noise and the generation of “bright squeezing”. Generation and control of higher-order propagation modes for the reduction of internal thermal noise in mirrors. Study of parametric instabilities that limit power increases in advanced detectors and implementing methods to eliminate them.
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