The University of Kassel is a modern and growing University with round about 22.000 students. The university’s wide range of expertise covers subjects in the natural, applied, cultural and social sciences.
In the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences - Institute of Physics - Section Molecular quantum physics with synchrotron radiation (Prof. Dr. Marcel Mudrich), the following job vacancy is to be filled as soon as possible:
researcher employee (m/f/d), EG 13 TV-H, termed initially, part-time (currently 20 working hours)
Application deadline:
18.09.2025
Date of hire:
as soon as possible
vacancy number: 38677
Part-time with half the regular working hours of a full-time employee. The position is initially limited to 2 years (qualification position according to § 72 HessHG in conjunction with § 2 Abs. 1 S. 1 WissZeitVG). This position offers the opportunity to graduate with a PhD degree.
In the Molecular quantum physics with synchrotron radiation group lead by Prof. Mudrich we address the following fundamental questions by conducting experiments with synchrotron radiation on molecular and nanoparticle beams:
1. What are the fundamental interaction processes of free molecules and molecular complexes with ionizing radiation?
2. What can we learn from measured ion mass spectra and photoelectron spectra and from time-dependent signals?
3. How can we use theoretical methods and model calculations to understand complex light-induced processes such as photofragmentation after single or multiple ionization, as well as intermolecular energy or charge exchange?
4. Can we use this knowledge to harness naturally occurring light-matter interactions for technological or medical developments, particularly with regard to atmospheric and environmentally relevant processes and radiotherapy methods?
The aim of this research is to theoretically investigate photoionization and photofragmentation processes of biomolecules and their solvation complexes in the gas phase using classical and quantum mechanical model calculations. This work, which is being carried out in close collaboration with renowned international theory groups, is intended to support the experiments conducted in this field. The interaction of ionizing radiation with free biomolecules and their solvation complexes usually triggers complex photodynamics, in particular various intra- and intermolecular processes such as molecular fragmentation, proton transfer, energy and charge transfer from one molecule to another, as well as the breaking of chemical bonds and the formation of new bonds. The simulations to be carried out will provide interpretation approaches for the diverse measured variables, in particular mass spectra measured in multiple coincidence, as well as mass-correlated photoelectron spectra.
Tasks:
5. Scientific collaboration in research and teaching in the field of molecular quantum physics with synchrotron radiation
6. Independent work on a sub-area of research in the modeling of photodynamic processes in biomolecules
7. Development and application of classical and quantum mechanical methods for simulating light-induced processes in biomolecules and their complexes, particularly single and multiple ionization
8. Participation in measurement campaigns at major international research facilities in Germany and Europe (mainly ASTRID2 in Aarhus, also SOLEIL near Paris, MAX-IV in Lund)
9. Data analysis, modeling, and interpretation, and writing scientific publications
10. Participation in the adaptation and development of new computer codes for modeling experimental results
11. Participation in the group‘s teaching obligations
12. Participation in the external presentation of the group and Physics Department and the communication of our research to the public
Requirements:
13. Completed university degree in physics, chemistry or nanoscience. The required qualification must be in place by the start date at the latest
14. A high degree of independence and teamwork skills
15. The willingness to work abroad for extended periods
The following skills are advantageous:
16. Good knowledge of molecular physics and light-matter interactions
17. Experience in conducting classical many-body simulations and modeling of small quantum systems
18. Good programming skills, particularly in Python
In the event of any differences between the German and English versions of this call for application, the German wording is legally binding.
Our Offer:
As an employee of the University of Kassel
19. you will be offered an interesting and diverse range of tasks within the framework of a modern and ambitious university,
20. you will be part of an interdisciplinary team with a good and collegial working atmosphere,
21. you will have the opportunity to participate in professional and interdisciplinary further education measures,
22. is your workplace with good connections to public transport, which you can currently use free of charge.
In addition, you will benefit from the advantages of employment in the public service such as:
23. an additional company pension (VBL),
24. an optional child supplement in accordance with TV-Hessen, a family-friendly university (including childcare for emergencies),
25. an annual bonus
26. an entitlement to capital-accumulation benefits,
27. a promotion of voluntary commitment,
28. low-cost participation in university sports and a full range of fitness activities as part of Unifit, as well as workplace health management
You can find more jobs at
In exceptional cases, we will also accept your application documents in paper form addressed to: The President of the University of Kassel, 34109 Kassel, Germany, or via mail to
Information and FAQ about applying for a job offer:
The University of Kassel is very interested in the professional satisfaction of its employees. It is distinguished as a family-friendly university and, in the interests of equal opportunities, strives to offer everyone the same opportunities for development and to counteract existing disadvantages. It promotes the Family Welcome Service and also the Dual Career Service for positions that are scientifically and academically filled. One of the strategic goals of the University of Kassel is to significantly increase the proportion of women in research and teaching. Applications from women are therefore particularly welcome. Seriously handicapped and equivalent applicants are given preference if they have the same suitability, qualifications and professional performance. Full-time positions are generally divisible (except when filling civil servant positions). Applications indicating the Position Number, which may be in digital form, should be sent to the President of the University of Kassel, 34109 Kassel, Germany quoting the applicable reference number.