PhD position in detector development for the next generation of cryogenic dark-matter axion experiments at SDU in Odense

The Astroparticle and Dark Matter group at the Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics Phenomenology (CP3) at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) invites applications for a PhD position in detector development for the next generation of cryogenic dark-matter axion experiments.

The successful candidate will contribute to the characterization and development of resonators and cavities for the Fabry-Pérot Axion Experiment (FAxE) and the Relic Axion Detector Exploratory Setup ( RADES ). In particular, the candidate will study superconducting cavity and mirror coatings to boost the experimental sensitivity. Moreover, development of the read-out system and data acquisition is planned. The candidate will participate in first data taking campaigns for both experiments. For RADES, these are foreseen in 2028 / 2029 and will require shift work and non-standard working hours.

The project is carried out within the framework of the CERN Lighthouse Consortium aiming to strengthen collaborative research activities between Denmark and CERN. The successful candidate will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Graduate School for Natural Sciences at SDU and the doctoral program at CERN, and will have access to experimental facilities at both institutions. The position includes a mobility component of up to two years at CERN, undertaken within CERN's Technology Department. CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research , is one of the world's leading laboratories for particle physics. Located on the Franco-Swiss border near Geneva, it operates some of the largest and most complex scientific instruments in the world, and provides a unique and stimulating environment for students and researchers from across the globe.

Our group at CP3 provides hands-on access to state-of-the-art cryogenic facilities and is embedded in a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment at SDU, with close ties to leading groups in light–matter interactions and nanophotonics, as well as to theoretical physicists in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science.

Essential qualifications include

• a strong motivation for fundamental research
• a solid background in particle physics
• experience with RF components.

Experience in cryogenics, superconductivity, data analysis, programming, and working in international research teams or collaborations will be considered an advantage.

To read more about the PhD program at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, read more here .
For more information about the position, please contact Associate Professor Manuel Meyer ( [email protected] ).

Natural Science Research – Interdisciplinary Strength
The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. At the Department, we contribute to solving some of society’s greatest challenges within energy, environment, health, and sustainability. We succeed because we build bridges between disciplines and transcend traditional boundaries. Our interdisciplinary mindset is not only a fundamental condition, but also our strength. And it is a strength that ensures our research and education are recognized both nationally and internationally.

Our vision is to create and apply knowledge across the natural sciences. We are unique in housing research within physics, chemistry, and pharmacy under one department, which provides excellent opportunities to explore the intersections between these disciplines. Read more about our vision here .

Further information about the PhD programme at the Faculty of Science can be found at the homepage of the University .

Salary is determined in accordance with the applicable collective agreement and based on objective and gender-neutral criteria, including the content of the position, responsibilities, and qualification requirements.
As an applicant, you are entitled to information about the starting salary and salary range for the position. This information will be provided during the recruitment process.
SDU does not collect information on applicants’ previous salary.

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

Application must be in English and made in the form of a Declaration of Interest including the following:

• motivation letter
• curriculum vitae, ncluding personal contact information and date entries
• transcripts of academic records
• Candidates should also arrange for a recommendation letter (typically by the supervisor of their MSc project) to be sent directly to [email protected]

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process. Incomplete applications and applications received after the deadline will neither be considered nor evaluated. This also applies to reference letters.
If you experience technical problems, please contact [email protected].

Applications will be assessed by an expert assessor/committee. Applicants will be informed of their assessment by the university.

Applications should be sent electronically via the link " Apply now ". The faculty expects applicants to read the information " How to apply for a position at SDU " before applying. Please note that the application documents should be in pdf-format and attached as three documents: motivation letter, CV and the remaining documents.

We recommend that as an international applicant you take the time to visit Work in Denmark where you will find information and facts about moving to, working and living in Denmark, as well as the International Staff Office at SDU .

About SDU
The University of Southern Denmark was established to create value for and with society. Whether our contributions come in the form of excellent research, innovative solutions, education or learning, we must make a positive difference to society and contribute to a sustainable future. We do this by cultivating talents and creating the best environments for research and learning. It is therefore crucial that SDU retains, develops and recruits talent. At the same time, we need to ensure consistently high quality in all our activities – and we can only do that with the right people. The University’s researchers, lecturers, students, managers and technical/administrative staff are the foundation of our success.