Developing optical metasurface coronagraphs for direct imaging of exoplanets


Leiden Observatory, part of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University, invites applications for a postdoctoral research associate (1,0 fte) in high-contrast imaging at the Leiden Observatory Astronomical Instrumentation group. The applicant will work together with Dr. Sebastiaan Haffert within a larger consortium to develop optical metamaterials, an exciting new class of optical components, for high-contrast imaging applications. We will leveraging optical metamaterials, an exciting new class of optical components, to develop broadband polarization insensitive coronagraphs. Optical metasurfaces, constructed with nanoscale structures using advanced lithographic techniques, provide unparalleled manipulation of their optical characteristics. This capability allows them to surpass previous limitations in the design of coronagraph components. We are searching for applicants with expertise in adaptive optics or high-contrast imaging instrument design.

What you will do
This is a consortium project in which we strive to develop optical metasurfaces as the next generation technology platform for high-contrast imaging. These components will be explored within the context of ELT/PCS and NASA’s HWO mission. As part of this project, the candidate will

  • Develop the numerical optimization code for freeform optical metasurface designs for high-contrast imaging.

  • Prototype broadband optical metasurfaces

  • Test the manufactured metasurface coronagraphs at the Netherlands Exoplanet Testbed


Where you will work
Leiden Observatory is the astronomical institute of the Faculty of Science at Leiden University. With a rich history and a leading role in international astronomy, we offer a dynamic work environment where cutting-edge research and top-level education come together. The Observatory is part of the Netherlands Research School for Astronomy (NOVA) and maintains close ties with ASTRON (the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy) and SRON (the Netherlands Institute for Space Research). Our academic programs include a Bachelor and Master degree, complemented by a renowned PhD program. Together with over 180 dedicated staff members we are committed to academic innovation and fostering a close-knit, inclusive community where everyone feels welcome and valued. For more information about Leiden Observatory, see here: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/astronomy

Leiden University’s Faculty of Science is a vibrant and internationally oriented environment where researchers and students collaborate across disciplines to expand the frontiers of knowledge. Research at the faculty spans a broad spectrum: mathematics, artificial intelligence, computer science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, bio-pharmaceutical sciences, biology, and environmental sciences. With over 1,300 staff members and nearly 4,000 students, the faculty has experienced significant growth and is situated in the heart of the Leiden Bio Science Park—one of Europe’s largest science hubs, fostering close interaction between academia and industry. For more information, please visit: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/science/about-faculty-of-science

The instrumentation group at Leiden Observatory is involved in many different high-contrast imaging instruments both on the ground such as VLT/SPHERE, ELT/METIS, ELT/PCS, Magellan/MagAO-X and GMT/GMagAO-X and for space such as the LAZULI mission and NASA’s next generation flagship HWO.

What you bring
This position is a good fit for you if you recognise yourself in the following:

  • The successful candidate is expected to have a PhD in Astrophysics, Physics, Optics or a related scientific field by the starting date.

  • The candidate should be fluent in English; Dutch is not a requirement.

  • Applicants should demonstrate a proven research track record.

  • You have demonstratable experience with high-contrast imaging

  • You have knowledge of optical simulations

  • The candidate will be expected to support and co-supervise MSc or Bachelor students.


What we offer

  • An employment contract for the duration of 2 years, with a possible extension of maximum 2 years. This contract falls under the CLA of Dutch Universities;

  • A salary of a minimum of €3.546,- and a maximum of €5.538,- gross per month, based on a full-time appointment (38 hours) (scale 10);

  • A holiday allowance (8%), an end-of-year bonus (8,3%), and an attractive pension scheme at ABP;

  • Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs for home-to-work travel;

  • Flexible working hours: as a standard, you are entitled to a minimum of 29 leave days on the basis of a full-time working week of 38 hours; you can also save for extra leave, for example by working 40 hours a week, and in this way accrue an extra 96 leave hours, or exchange 96 leave hours for a 36-hour week.

  • Lots of options when it comes to secondary employment conditions; we can, for example, discuss options for a sabbatical or paid parental leave. Within our terms of employment individual choices model, you can exchange leave days and/or salary for benefits such as an advantageous sports subscription or bicycle scheme, and we also offer child-care options;

  • If your work allows it, hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands;

  • A home-working allowance (day and internet allowance) and attention for good workplaces.

  • Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a temporary tax break.


For more information about employment conditions, see https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions

What we find important
Promoting an inclusive community is central to Leiden University’s values and vision. Leiden University aims to be an inclusive community in which all students and staff members feel valued and respected, and are able to develop to their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High-quality education and research means inclusive education and research.
Want to apply or find out more?
Applications should be submitted through the Leiden Observatory application portal and must include:

• A cover letter;
• A curriculum vitae including a publication list;
• A research statement of at most 2 pages
• Two to three reference letters.

If you would like more information about what the job entails, please contact Dr. Sebastiaan Haffert, at haffert@strw.leidenuniv.nl. You can apply until June 1st.

  • In choosing between candidates, in case of equal suitability, preference will be given to internal candidates and candidates from underrepresented groups.

  • A pre-employment screening (references, diplomas, certificate of good conduct (VOG)) may be part of the selection procedure.

  • Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated. If you nevertheless choose to send us CVs, no rights can be derived from this.