PhD student position in Experimental Particle Physics at SDU in Odense

The Astroparticle and Dark Matter group at the Center for Cosmology and Particle Physics Phenomenology (CP3) at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) invites applications for a PhD position in Experimental Particle Physics, with a focus on cryogenic single-photon detectors for axion searches. 

The successful candidate will contribute to the development of background-suppression techniques for single‑photon detectors used in axion experiments, operating at optical and infrared wavelengths. The research project includes the installation and characterization of a cold optical filter bench inside a dilution refrigerator, and the evaluation of its performance when coupled to a transition edge sensor (TES) or superconducting nanowire single‑photon detector (SNSPD). Additional responsibilities include developing efficient coupling of free‑space optics to optical fibers, conducting extended data‑taking runs with TES and SNSPD systems, and performing data analysis. Contributions to the development of novel experimental designs for dark matter axion searches are also possible. 

Our group provides hands-on access to state-of-the-art cryogenic facilities and the opportunity to work within major international research collaborations. CP3 is embedded in a vibrant and interdisciplinary research environment at SDU, with close ties to leading groups in light–matter interactions and nanophotonics, as well as to theoretical physicists in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. We collaborate closely with scientists of the ALPS II collaboration and parts of the experimental work will be carried out at DESY, Hamburg. 

Applicants should indicate whether they are applying for a 3‑year PhD position, in which case a Master’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in physics or a closely related field is required, or for a 4‑year integrated Master’s and PhD program.

Essential qualifications include:

• a strong motivation for fundamental research
• a solid background in particle physics
• experience with optics. 

Experience in cryogenics, data analysis, programming, nanophotonics, and working in international research teams or collaborations will be considered an advantage.

For more information about the position, please contact Associate Professor Manuel Meyer (mey@sdu.dk). 

To read more about the PhD program at the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, read more here. 

Natural Science Research – Interdisciplinary Strength

The Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy is one of four departments at the Faculty of Science, SDU and is located in Odense. At the Department, we contribute to solving some of society’s greatest challenges within energy, environment, health, and sustainability. We succeed because we build bridges between disciplines and transcend traditional boundaries. Our interdisciplinary mindset is not only a fundamental condition, but also our strength. And it is a strength that ensures our research and education are recognized both nationally and internationally.

Our vision is to create and apply knowledge across the natural sciences. We are unique in housing research within physics, chemistry, and pharmacy under one department, which provides excellent opportunities to explore the intersections between these disciplines. Read more about our vision here.

Shortlisting may be used in the assessment process.

Application deadline: 31.03.2026