One postdoctoral fellow position in particle physics is available in the group of Associate Professor Manuel Meyer at the Department of Physics and Chemistry, University of Southern Denmark (SDU) in Odense.

Application deadline: 9 April 2023.

Starting date of the position will be 1 May 2023 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The newly formed Axion Dark Matter and Astroparticle research group focuses on searches for dark matter in the form of axions and axion-like particles (ALPs) both in astrophysical observations and dedicated laboratory experiments. It is supported by a Starting Grant from the European Research Council. The group is part of the CP3-Origins Centre which includes leading scientists from mathematics, particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology at SDU.

The nature of dark matter, which makes up more than 80% of the total matter in the Universe, is one of the most pressing questions in fundamental particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. Axions and ALPs are promising dark matter candidates which could be detected in the upcoming Any Light Particle Search (ALPS II) at DESY, Hamburg, Germany. ALPS II will start taking data later this year.

The successful candidate for this postdoc position is expected to conduct research and development for cryogenic single-photon detectors, in particular transition edge sensors (TES), for dark matter searches and possibly gravitational waves. Specifically, the candidate will help with the characterization and commissioning of the TES foreseen for ALPS II. Additionally the candidate will explore both experimental and data analysis schemes for an efficient background rejection. Furthermore, the candidate should investigate novel detector designs in collaboration with international partners to explore the usage of cryogenic detectors beyond ALPS II for the direct detection of light dark matter and the search for ultra-high frequency gravitational waves.

The successful candidate is expected to spend time both at SDU and at the ALPS II site at DESY, Hamburg, Germany. Postdoctoral researchers will also have the opportunity to attend summer schools, international conferences or other educational and supporting measures. They will also have the opportunity to participate in academic and soft skills training, as well as career planning support.

Specific Requirements:
· PhD in physics or particle physics or a related discipline
· Strong background in particle physics
· Experience in conducting and setting up laboratory experiments
· Experience in scientific computing, programming, and statistics
· Creative and systematic work ethic with the ability to propose new lines of research and high level of independence
· Excellent command of the English language
· Strong initiative and involvement in an international team environment.

Additionally, outstanding candidates will have experience in one or more of the following fields: cryogenic detectors, single quantum interference devices (SQUIDs), experimental rare-event searches, fiber-coupled optics, or Monte-Carlo simulations.

The position is initially for two years with the possibility for an extension by a third year. For further information please contact Associate Professor Manuel Meyer, e-mail: [email protected].

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is a department focused on basic research. We are happy to move beyond traditional disciplines and work to develop new technologies and sciences across physics, chemistry, pharmacy, mathematics, computer science and biology. The department’s research thus contributes to new knowledge and solutions with applications in the areas of climate, environment, energy, and health. The position is placed in the Physics section.

Appointment as a postdoctoral fellow is for two years with a possibility for extension for another year. Employment stops automatically at the end of the period.

Application, salary etc.
The successful applicant will be employed in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and AC (the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations). Please check links for more information on salary and taxation.

The application must include the following:
• A letter stating your specific interest, motivation and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages)
• A curriculum vitae including information on previous employment
• List of publications
• Copy of PhD degree, including transcript of notes/grades
• At least two signed reference letters.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated.

To qualify you must have passed a PhD or equivalent. Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link "Apply online". Attached files must be in Adobe PDF or Word format. Each box can only contain a single file of max. 10 Mb. We strongly recommend that you read How to apply before you apply.

Further information for international applicants about entering and working in Denmark.