Researcher in adaptive optics and coronography

Université Grenoble Alpes; France; Sur place; EUR 30 000 - 45 000; Plein temps

Résumé du poste

A leading research university in France is seeking a First Stage Researcher in Astrophysics and Planetology. The role involves testing optical components on coronagraphic benches and developing software for adaptive optics. Candidates are expected to demonstrate skills in optical alignment, teamwork, and communication in both French and English. This position is a full-time, temporary position with a deadline for applications on January 1, 2026.

Qualifications

• Demonstrate rigour, adaptability, agility, and responsiveness.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.

Responsabilités

• Prepare and install a micro-mirror array on a coronagraphic bench.
• Test components as an adaptive apodiser using an adaptive optics system.
• Measure wavefronts with a Zernike mask in near-infrared optical setups.

Connaissances

Optical component alignment

Adaptive optics system analysis

Software development in Python

Teamwork

Communication in French and English

Description du poste

Organisation/Company Université Grenoble Alpes Research Field Astronomy » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Country France Application Deadline 1 Jan 2026 - 02:48 (UTC) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

IPAG is an international player in astrophysics and planetology research, implementing a variety of approaches (experimentation, instrumentation, observation, modelling) in conjunction with major research infrastructures in the field, both on the ground (including the giant ELT telescope) and in space (CNES and ESA programmes). IPAG is a unit of the Grenoble Observatory of Universe Sciences (OSUG) and a joint research unit (CNRS, UGA) with approximately 170 staff members and numerous temporary employees.

The CHARM team, led by Alexis Carlotti. The team comprises 19 members of all statuses.

Activities

• Prepare and install a MOEMS-type micro-mirror array on a coronagraphic bench in visible light, ensuring that it is secure
• Use this bench to test this component as an adaptive apodiser, in conjunction with an adaptive optics system, including the development of wavefront control methods based on information obtained in the pupil plane and focal plane
• Measure the wavefront using a Zernike mask in the presence of adaptive optics residues induced by a liquid crystal array. This is a near-infrared optical bench that is separate from the first one and already in place
• Document all of these activities in English, particularly with a view to publication in scientific journals or at conferences. They will be carried out as a team with the support of engineers (systems, control, electronics, mechanics, optics) and astronomers
• Know how to align optical components
• Be able to use and analyse the performance of adaptive optics systems
• Knowledge of software development (Python) for wavefront control using adaptive optics
• Demonstrate rigour, adaptability, agility and responsiveness
• Ability to work in a team
• Be independent and organised
• Ability to communicate and convey information: oral and written in French and English
• Knowledge of project management methods (monitoring, reporting)

[e-mail]