Enlightening Science
European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany.
It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in
physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse
scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide
range of experimental techniques.
For our EXPLODE group we are looking for a
PhD student - Microstructural Dynamics of Fusion Targets (f/m/d) - 29,25 hours/week
The Position
This PhD project is funded by the BMFTR as part of the "EXPLODE" (Experimental X-ray Platforms for Optimisation and Diagnosis of inertial fusion Energy) research group and is focused on developing X-ray imaging diagnostics together with the HED- HiBEF instrument. The BMFTR Project code is 13F1044 for the project "Experimentelle Röntgenplattformen zur Optimierung und Diagnose der Trägheitsfusion" (EXPLODE).
- Contribute to the development and application of X-ray imaging methods for the investigation of laser-driven, fusion-relevant targets.
- Analyse experimental data and help establish robust, well-documented workflows for the evaluation of X-ray imaging measurements.
- Support the preparation, fabrication and characterisation of nanostructured targets for experiments.
- Assist with the planning, preparation and execution of experiments at European XFEL and other facilities, including beamtime applications.
- Work with colleagues and external collaborators on experimental studies, simulations, data analysis and interpretation.
- Present results through internal reports, conferences and scientific publications, and a doctoral thesis
Requirements
- Masters degree in Physics, Materials science, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or a closely related field.
- Strong interest in X-ray imaging, laser-matter interaction, high energy-density physics or fusion research
- Experience with scientific programming and data analysis, preferably in Python or similar language
- Motivation to gain practical experience in laboratory work, target fabrication, microscopy, and large-scale experimental facilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organise research tasks effectively and communicate scientific results
- Previous experience with large-scale user facility experiments
- Large scale data analysis/parallel computing
- Familiarity with x-ray diagnostics (imaging, diffraction, scattering techniques)
- Practical experience with laboratory work: microscopy, materials characterisation or nanostructured materials
Reference Number
S-681
Duration
Initially limited to 3 years, an extension is possible.
Our offer
Become part of a vibrant international and multi-cultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.Work-life balance & flexibility
- A family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
- Flexible working hours and options to work from home (depending on your role and tasks)
- 30 days of paid vacation, plus December 24th and 31st off (granted by the employer)
- The position is offered in part-time, with 29.25 hours a week
- Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany
- Salary: min. 13/1 with 4,901.11 € - max 13/2 with 5,279.32 € (values for full time will be adjusted according to the part-time model); the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, here is the link to the current valid tariff table
- Depending on the pay group, we offer an annual special payment of 75-95% of one month’s salary
- Partially funded public transportation Deutschlandticket
- Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of your monthly salary)
- Extensive relocation benefits to help you settle in smoothly
- English as company language, enabling easy collaboration in our international environment
- Extensive training opportunities, including subsidized English and German language courses
- Subsidized sports membership with access to over 7,000 sport clubs
- Monthly social events and company restaurant with employee discounts
- Free access to a professional mental health support platform
Application
Please provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.
Application Deadline:
18/11/2026 