Informations générales
Intitulé de l'offre : CDD researcher for the Validation of the detection chain and simulation of the scientific performance of an X-ray imaging spectrometer for a space science mission (M/F) (H/F)
Référence : UMR5277-SANCHU-067
Nombre de Postes : 1
Lieu de travail : TOULOUSE
Date de publication : lundi 7 juillet 2025
Type de contrat : Chercheur en contrat CDD
Durée du contrat : 24 mois
Date d'embauche prévue : 1 octobre 2025
Quotité de travail : Complet
Rémunération : Between €2991.58 and €4166.70 gross per month depending on experience
Niveau d'études souhaité : Doctorat
Expérience souhaitée : 1 à 4 années
Section(s) CN : 17 - Système solaire et univers lointain
Missions
IRAP is developing a high-resolution X-ray imaging spectrometer (X-IFU) for the European Space Agency's Athena space mission, currently in Phase B study. The instrument relies on the use of microcalorimeters cooled to 50 mK above absolute zero. The recruited person will be responsible for, on one side, contributing to the implementation of a prototype detection chain and its calibration sources, developing and validating the procedures necessary for the calibration of the X-IFU instrument and, on the other side, validating the scientific performance achievable with X-IFU in the field of galaxy cluster physics through simulated observations and the observation analysis pipeline.
Activités
• Instrumental: Setting up X-ray optical systems, operation of X-ray generators, development and validation of sub-Kelvin detection systems and calibration protocols. Writing associated documents.
• Astrophysical: Simulation and analysis of X-ray observations of clusters of galaxies. Determination of instrument performance.
• Scientific dissemination: Presentation, dissemination, and promotion of research through international conferences and scientific publications.
Compétences
Good knowledge of atomic physics and high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy. Proven experience in the instrumentation of spectrometers based on microcalorimeters cooled to 50 mK and X-ray sources. Proficiency in spectroscopic data analysis methods and tools. Extensive experience in the study of clusters of galaxies physics, simulation of observations using a microcalorimeter-based imaging spectrometer, analysis of simulated data, and determination of instrumental performance. Mastery of simulation-based inference methods.
Contexte de travail
The instrument is being developed by over 15 laboratories and institutes within a large international consortium. IRAP holds the scientific responsibility for the instrument, while CNES (French Space Agency) is responsible for its technical development. Additionally, IRAP is developing the digital electronics of the spectrometer and coordinates the instrument calibration team, which includes around 20 members from the consortium. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with IRAP and CNES engineers and instrumental researchers, and within the X-IFU scientific team at IRAP.
Le poste se situe dans un secteur relevant de la protection du potentiel scientifique et technique (PPST), et nécessite donc, conformément à la réglementation, que votre arrivée soit autorisée par l'autorité compétente du MESR.
Contraintes et risques
Use of radioactive sources. Work in clean room. Occasional international travel, particularly to Germany, is expected.