The Ghent Gravity Group is seeking applications for PhD positions in gravitational-wave (GW) instrumentation and data analysis. Members of the group are involved with Virgo instrumentation, LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA (LVK) data analysis, and Observational Science with the Einstein Telescope (ET). The group is well-embedded in the Virgo / LVK Collaborations (we are already in VirgoLab and are expecting to join IGWN) and Ghent University is also one of the initial members of the Einstein Telescope Collaboration. Moreover Ghent University is a founding partner of the ETpathfinder project, and members of the group take part in the instrumentation developments related to this facility in Maastricht. The group is led by Prof. Archisman Ghosh, and its instrumentation activities are currently overseen by Dr. Daniela Pascucci. Dr. Matthias Vereecken is an independent postdoctoral fellow with a research line in multimessenger transients and neutrino-triggered searches, and another instrumentation postdoc is expected to join the group soon.
We are looking for candidates with the following profiles:
GW instrumentation (optics): Motivation and experience with hands-on experimental work in a laboratory (required). Familiarity with GW interferometry simulation software such as Finesse and/or Oscar (desired). The research focus will be on Virgo calibration using scattered light. The candidate will also carry out ETpathfinder / ET optics R&D.
GW data analysis: Motivation and experience with data analysis work in context of GW sciences (required). Familiarity with LVK detector characterization / search / parameter inference pipelines (desired). The research focus will be on development of data analysis techniques for 3G detectors. Participation in LVK/IGWN data analysis work is also expected.
We will fill one or both of the above positions depending on the availability of suitable candidates.
Candidates should have a masters degree in the Physical Sciences or Engineering. Applications should include: (i) a statement of interest (up to two pages), (ii) a brief academic CV, (iii) a list of grades, (iv) title and abstract of masters thesis (if applicable), and additionally (v) two letters of reference (to be sent directly by the referees). Applications including letters of reference are to be sent to gravity@ugent.be.
The deadline for applications is 31 March 2026. We will interview the shortlisted candidates in April / early May and expect to announce the results by May. The position is expected to begin on 01 September 2026 or soon afterwards. PhD positions in Belgium are for a duration of 4 years.
Please find here details.