Research position in planetary science – cosmic dust / heliosphere

The Astrophysical dust group at the ETH Zürich focuses on the science of cosmic dust nearby and inside the solar system and on the dust interaction with the solar wind plasma. The main methods used are computer simulations for studying dust dynamics and analysing in situ measurements by spacecraft that carry a dust detector on board. We collaborate with researchers in Switzerland and abroad.

Interstellar dust moves through the solar system due to the relative motion between the solar system and its immediate interstellar neighbourhood. We can measure these dust particles’ mass, composition and flow direction inside the solar system, but part of these dust particles are filtered out of the heliopshere by electromagnetic forces. We simulate the motion of these dust particles and make predictions for fluxes for future and past missions, and compare these to available data in order to constrain particle and heliosphere characteristics. This way, we contribute to the exploration of our immediate interstellar surroundings, the distant heliosphere, and the pristine interstellar matter in our cosmic “backyard”.

We offer a stimulating work environment in a small team of highly motivated space scientists, working together to explore space in a cross-disciplinary way. We have many national and international contacts, are part of the Swiss NCCR PlanetS, and we support your professional development. We highly value integrity, teamwork, openness, scientific curiosity, diversity and empathy.