Physicist in observational Cosmology

Physics World; France; Sur place; EUR 60 000 - 80 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading research institute in France is inviting applications for a permanent researcher in observational cosmology, focusing on large-scale structures and their analysis using advanced methods. Candidates should possess a PhD in fundamental physics and show creativity and expertise in their research. Responsibilities include engaging with large spectroscopic surveys and preparing for future research projects. Applications must be submitted by March 13, 2026.

Qualifications

• PhD required in fundamental physics.
• Demonstrated expertise in observational cosmology.
• Strong background in large-scale structures.

Responsabilités

• Conduct research in observational cosmology.
• Engage in analyzing data from large spectroscopic surveys.
• Prepare applications for future large surveys.

Connaissances

Creative ability in observational cosmology

Expertise in large-scale structures of the Universe

Experience with AI methods

Formation

PhD in fundamental physics

Description du poste

Overview

The Particle Physics Department (DPhP) of the Institute for Research on the Fundamental Laws of the Universe (IRFU) at CEA Paris-Saclay is inviting applications for the recruitment in 2026 of a permanent researcher in observational cosmology.

The scientific activities of the DPhP cover the study of elementary constituents at the highest energies in colliders, neutrino physics, gamma-ray astronomy, cosmology, the study of gravitational waves, and upstream instrumentation.

The DPhP studies the formation of large structures in the Universe using large spectroscopic surveys of galaxies and quasars, notably DESI, to which it makes major contributions, both instrumentally and scientifically. The DPhP plays a central role in the analysis of DESI data at all levels, from the production of catalogs to cosmological interpretations, with a particular focus on the study of density effects, the measurement of neutrino mass, and primordial non-Gaussianities. It is also interested in the application of AI methods to the analysis of galaxy surveys. Several researchers specialize in the study of the "Lyman-alpha forest" of quasars, a highly effective method for mapping the Universe at very early stages. The DPhP is also involved in preparing for future large surveys.

We are looking for motivated candidates with a PhD in fundamental physics, demonstrating creative ability in the field of observational cosmology with strong expertise in large-scale structures of the Universe, who wish to join the department\'s Cosmology group.

The application file must contain:

• a curriculum vitae;
• a photocopy of your identity card or passport;
• a cover letter;
• a description of the candidate\'s past scientific activity (maximum 4 pages);
• a description of the candidate\'s future research project (maximum 3 pages);
• a list of publications and internal notes highlighting the candidate\'s personal contributions. The most significant ones ( maximum 3 ) should be attached;
• a list of presentations at conferences, workshops, and seminars;
• 3 letters of recommendation (to be sent directly to the DPhP secretariat);
• 2 or 3 names of people who can be contacted for reference.

This file in PDF format must be received in full by March 13, 2026, at the latest, at the following address: [e-mail].

After a preliminary selection based on applications, scheduled for April 2026, successful candidates will be interviewed in May 2026.

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephone on [phone] or by email at the department secretariat: [e-mail].