University of Zurich 
Zurich, Switzerland Angebotszusammenfassung
The University of Zurich invites applications for three PhD positions in Computational Astrophysics within the Department of Astrophysics. Funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation project “Euclid Science in Switzerland,” these temporary roles start on 1 January 2027 for up to four years at 80% FTE. Candidates will contribute to ESA’s Euclid mission by developing N-body simulations using PKDGRAV3, building machine-learning emulators, and modeling baryonification for multi-probe cosmology. Applicants require a master’s degree in physics or astronomy, with strong interest in high-performance computing or numerical astrophysics encouraged. Responsibilities include collaborating with international partners like ETH Zurich and utilizing CSCS supercomputing facilities. Applications, due by 8 November 2026, must include a CV, letter of intent, transcripts, and thesis draft. The position offers access to excellent scientific infrastructure and Zurich’s high quality of living.
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Projektbeschreibung
Department of Astrophysics
Three PhD Positions in Computational Astrophysics 80 %
Start of employment from 1 January 2027, temporary
The Department of Astrophysics at the University of Zurich invites applications for three PhD positions in computational astrophysics. The positions are part of the Swiss National Science Foundation project “Euclid Science in Switzerland” and are funded for up to four years.
ESA's Euclid space telescope is mapping billions of galaxies across a third of the sky to uncover the nature of dark matter and dark energy. Interpreting these data relies on simulations and theoretical predictions of matching precision, and our group provides them: we develop the N-body code PKDGRAV3 and produced the Euclid Flagship simulations, among the largest cosmological simulations ever performed.
The successful candidates will join this effort and work within the international Euclid Consortium, in close collaboration with partners at ETH Zurich, EPFL, FHNW and the University of Geneva. They will be supervised by Dr. Douglas Potter, Prof. Dr. Joachim Stadel and Dr. Aurel Schneider.
The scientific computing infrastructure at the University of Zurich is excellent and includes dedicated access to the facilities of the Swiss National Supercomputing Centre (CSCS). Zurich offers a dynamic and international living environment and is consistently ranked among the world's best cities for quality of living.
Your responsibilities
The research covers three broad, overlapping areas:
- Flagship simulations: Develop and run the next-generation Euclid Flagship simulation with PKDGRAV3 on GPU-accelerated supercomputers. This includes extending the code to identify dark matter halos and their substructure on the fly, and working with our partners to turn the simulation into mock galaxy catalogues for Euclid.
- Emulators: Build the next generation of the Euclid Emulator: machine-learning models, trained on large suites of simulations, that predict cosmological statistics in milliseconds. The goal is to extend the emulator from the matter distribution to galaxy clustering and lensing statistics.
- Baryonification and multi-probe cosmology: Model how gas and stars alter the matter distribution predicted by N-body simulations, and develop a pipeline that produces consistent synthetic sky maps (weak lensing, galaxy clustering, X-ray and Sunyaev–Zel'dovich) for Euclid and complementary surveys.
This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of astrophysics and advanced computational methods.
Your profile
Applicants are expected to hold a master's degree (or equivalent) in physics, astronomy or a related field by the starting date.
Candidates with a strong interest in high-performance computing, machine learning or numerical astrophysics are especially encouraged to apply. Programming experience is an asset.
Information on your application
Applications should include:
- a CV;
- a letter of intent (no more than two pages), indicating which of the three areas interest you most;
- undergraduate and master's transcripts;
- the master's thesis (or a current draft);
- the names and contact details of at least three academic referees willing to provide letters upon request.
Standardized test scores and English proficiency tests are optional.
Please submit your application via the "Apply Now" button.
Applications received by 8 November 2026 will be considered for a start on 1 January 2027. Later applications are welcome and will be reviewed until all positions are filled, with a starting date to be agreed. After an initial selection based on the application documents, suitable candidates will be invited to remote interviews, and reference letters will be requested at that time.
Informal enquiries are welcome and can be directed to Dr. Douglas Potter (douglas.potter@uzh.ch).
What we offer
Our employees benefit from a wide range of attractive offers. Find out more.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
- Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
- Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
- Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
- Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
- Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
- Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
- Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
- Free seasonal flu vaccinations
- Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
- Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
- Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
Conditions of Employment
- Policies of the UZH
- Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
- Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
- Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
- Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
Department of Astrophysics
Further information
Questions about the job
Dr. Douglas Potter
Principal Investigator (SNSF Project)
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
Please apply via our job portal jobs.uzh.ch.
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
