Postdoctoral Researcher in the area of Direct Detection of Dark Matter using Noble Gas Detectors

The position is part of the project Accurate Modeling of Dark Matter – Electron Interactions in Liquid Xenon and Argon, a Swiss National Science Foundation collaborative project with the group of Riccardo Catena at Chalmers University.

The overall goal of the project is to develop, numerically implement, and apply a theoretical framework to accurately describe the expected dark matter-induced electron ionization events in operating liquid xenon and argon detectors.

The postdoctoral researcher will focus on:

• Developing and implementing a state-of-the-art treatment of the xenon and argon liquid phase using electronic structure calculations.
• Developing computer code for computing ionization rates with general dark matter-electron interactions.
• Exploring appropriate descriptions of electron final states.
• Calculating dark-matter-induced ionization rates for liquid xenon and argon, with full treatment of final states, in-medium screening, and general dark matter-electron interaction types.

A PhD in Computational Materials Physics or a related area is required.

• Experience with electronic structure calculations, including writing computer code, is essential.
• Familiarity with or interest in field theory and astroparticle physics is desirable.

Candidates should be able to work both independently and collaboratively and contribute to the positive research group environment. The research team functions most effectively when the members have a diversity of backgrounds, and we aim to be 100% LGBTQ+ friendly.

• Your career with impact: Become part of ETH Zurich, which not only supports your professional development, but also actively contributes to positive change in society.
• We are actively committed to a sustainable and climate-neutral university.
• You can expect numerous benefits, such as public transport season tickets and car sharing, a wide range of sports offered by the ASVZ, childcare and attractive pension benefits.