Weak lensing cosmology with LSST using simulation-based inference

Physics World; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 60.000 - 80.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research laboratory is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in cosmology to analyze weak gravitational lensing data from upcoming surveys. The candidate will develop innovative methods for data analysis and contribute to the LSST-DESC. Ideal applicants hold a PhD in astrophysics or a related field, and experience in statistical analysis and simulations is preferred. The position offers a net monthly salary between €2531 and €3517 with standard benefits and a flexible start date between spring 2026 and early 2027.

Leistungen

Health care benefits

Parental leave

Sick days

Retirement benefits

Nine weeks of paid vacation

Qualifikationen

• Hold a PhD in astrophysics or a related field.
• Experience in observational cosmology, statistical data analysis, numerical simulations and/or machine learning is an asset.
• No more than two years of postdoctoral experience since PhD.

Aufgaben

• Contribute to LSST-DESC analyses through weak-lensing simulations.
• Develop simulation-based inference methods for topological descriptors.
• Work with science-ready data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

Kenntnisse

Statistical data analysis

Numerical simulations

Machine learning

Observational cosmology

Ausbildung

PhD in astrophysics or closely related field

Jobbeschreibung

The Laboratoire de Physique Subatomique et de Cosmologie ( LPSC ) in Grenoble, France, invites applications for a 2-year postdoctoral position in cosmology, funded by the Enigmass+ program. The successful candidate will develop innovative methods for analyzing weak gravitational lensing data from next-generation cosmological surveys, with emphasis on topological data analysis and simulation-based inference for LSST, Euclid, and Roman. The project aims to extract cosmological information from non-Gaussian signals in large-scale structure to constrain dark matter and dark energy.

The postdoc will join a dynamic team of 12 staff members specializing in CMB and galaxy surveys, alongside PhD students and postdocs (webpage in French). The group is deeply involved in LSST across multiple areas: camera construction, Rubin Observatory commissioning, cosmological inference, and early science validation. They lead key analyses within the international LSST Dark Energy Science Collaboration (DESC). Beyond cosmology, the group explores gamma-ray bursts and cosmic-ray phenomenology, reflecting the LPSC’s broad expertise in experimental and theoretical physics, from particle physics to cosmology. As part of IN2P3, the LPSC benefits from a network of laboratories collaborating on LSST, fostering scientific partnerships across France and providing access to high-performance computing resources (CC-IN2P3).

The successful candidate is expected to primarily contribute to the LSST-DESC analyses by developing realistic weak-lensing simulations with cosmological and observational systematics, and designing robust simulation-based inference methods for topological descriptors. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to work with the first science-ready data obtained by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory.

Profile and eligibility

Candidates should hold a PhD in astrophysics or a closely related field. Previous experience in observational cosmology, statistical data analysis, numerical simulations and/or machine learning will be considered assets.

Candidates must have no more than two years of postdoctoral experience, from the date of their PhD defense, at the contract start date. The position offers a flexible starting date to be arranged with the successful candidate, from spring 2026 and by early 2027 at the latest.

The CNRS is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities.

Application material

Applicants should submit materials through the CNRS employment portal (link to be provided, material may already be sent directly to Cyrille Doux at [e-mail] ). Required documents include a CV, publication list, and a statement of research experience and interests. Two reference letters should be sent directly to Cyrille Doux ( [e-mail] ).

Deadline

Applications received by March 29, 2026 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled. Any inquiry should be directed to Cyrille Doux ( [e-mail] ).

Additional information

Net salary (before income taxes) ranges between 2531 and 3517 euros per month depending on experience. The position includes the standard French social security benefits (health care, parental leave, sick days, retirement) and nine weeks of paid vacations. Speaking French is not required for the position.

About Grenoble

Grenoble is home to 55,000 students, including 8,500 international students, and is recognized as one of the world's leading hubs for physics innovation, receiving the 2026 Award for European Capital of Innovation. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous social, sports, and scientific events. Located in the French Alps, it provides exceptional natural scenery and abundant outdoor recreation (see tourism website). The city is well-connected: 3 hours from Paris by train, 2 hours from Geneva and its international airport, 3 hours from the Mediterranean coast, and close to Lyon St-Exupéry airport with affordable connections to Europe and beyond.