Postdoc in Exoplanets: EPRV Research and the Second Earth Spectrograph

The Exoplanet Group at DTU Space at the Technical University of Denmark, situated in the greater Copenhagen area, invites applications from highly qualified individuals for a postdoctoral position of three-year duration in extreme-precision radial velocity research. The postdoc will work on projects related to the Second Earth Spectrograph (2ES, ), a next-generation extreme-precision radial velocity instrument that will be installed at the MPG/ESO 2.2m Telescope at La Silla, Chile. 2ES is dedicated to discovering temperate Earth-mass planets in the habitable zone around the brightest solar-type stars in the Southern Hemisphere, targeting extreme RV precision. With first light expected in the lab in late 2026/early 2027 and 6 months later at the telescope, this is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge instrument during its commissioning and early science phases.

You will work with Prof. Lars A. Buchhave (2ES PI) and the rapidly growing Exoplanet Group at DTU Space. At DTU Space, you will have access to data from world-class telescopes, including JWST, ultra-precise RV spectrographs (e.g., HARPS-N and EXPRES), and access to ESO facilities. Additional information about the Exoplanet Group at DTU Space can be found at , and more details about 2ES can be found at 

Responsibilities and qualifications

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated researcher to work at the forefront of extreme-precision radial velocity science. The postdoc will be involved with one or more of the following activities: developing and implementing a data reduction pipeline for 2ES to achieve extreme RV precision; conducting laboratory testing and characterization of 2ES to ensure optimal performance and stability; integrating a Laser Frequency Comb (LFC) calibration source to ensure extreme long-term precision; developing and applying stellar activity mitigation techniques for solar-type stars; refining the target list for 2ES and conducting preparatory observations using other facilities; and contributing to the scientific and technical preparation for 2ES operations and the discovery of Earth-mass planets.

Candidates with previous experience in high-resolution spectroscopy, radial velocity techniques, data pipeline development, stellar activity analysis, and/or astronomical instrumentation are especially encouraged to apply. Strong programming skills, expertise in spectroscopic data reduction and analysis, and a demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively are highly valued. Flexibility and self-motivation are desired skills at DTU Space. In particular, the Exoplanet Group fosters a vibrant collaborative work environment, where collaboration with other group members is highly encouraged.

This project will allow you to work with state-of-the-art instrumentation and contribute to one of the most ambitious planet-hunting projects aimed at finding Earth twins. You are encouraged to pursue additional independent research interests during your postdoc.

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent).

We offer

DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation, and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment

The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 3 years. The starting date is flexible but would ideally commence in Q3-Q4 of 2026.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 

Further information and inquiries about the position can be made to Prof. Lars A. Buchhave ) or Dr. Alexander Rathcke ). You can read more about the Exoplanet Group at  and the DTU Space institute at  

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 

Your complete online application must be submitted no later than Friday, 9 January :59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file containing all required materials to be considered. To apply, please click on the "Apply now" link, complete the online application form, and attach all your materials in English to a single PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 
• Research statement describing your previous work and thoughts, and ideas for future research (max 3 pages)

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide 2-3 reference letters, which will be emailed at a later date.

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates, irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion, or ethnic background, are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

DTU Space
The Institute has about 200 employees and is located in the greater Copenhagen area at the Lyngby Campus of the Technical University of Denmark, together with 19 other institutes within the technical sciences. In the Astrophysics & Atmospheric Physics Division of the Department of Space Research and Space Technology (DTU Space), current focus areas cover exoplanets, large-scale structure of the universe, physics of compact objects, space weather, upper atmosphere physics, and cosmo-climatology, as well as development of instrumentation, in particular high-energy instrumentation, i.e. X- and gamma ray detectors and optics. The division is currently active in the operation of instruments and data analysis from three satellites. The division also operates four instrumentation laboratories and maintains a centre for space weather research and forecasting.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.