Research Associate for the Project “Capturing Attosecond-to-femtosecond Chiral Transients with Ultrafast Spectroscopy (CACTUS)” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG
InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics
Salary level
Start dateas soon as possible, fixed for a period of one year with a possible extension of 1 year (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline14.08.2025
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities
Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications.
We are opening a postdoctoral position at the Center for Free-Electron Laser (CFEL) Science in Hamburg, jointly hosted by two leading research groups specializing in attosecond spectroscopy and FEL science. The CFEL-ATTO group has recently developed a cutting-edge light source capable of delivering few-femtosecond UV pulses, which have been used to capture light-driven electron dynamics that modulate the chirality of molecules [Wanie et al., Nature, 2024]. The position is part of the DFG-ANR project CACTUS, aiming at Capturing Attosecond-to-femtosecond Chiral Transients with Ultrafast Spectroscopy. The postdoctoral researcher will perform complementary experiments using both advanced table-top laser sources as well as world-class FEL facilities to investigate the electronic and structural dynamics of complex systems through charged particle detection. The work will include both optical and molecular source development. This unique opportunity offers the candidate access to cutting-edge technology and a collaborative environment aimed at pushing the frontiers of ultrafast science.
The tasks include:
1. preparation and implementation of laser-based studies on ultrafast processes in chiral matter
2. experiments on nonlinear light-matter interaction with laser and X-rays
3. further experiments on X-ray light sources, e.g. storage ring systems and free-electron lasers
4. operation and development of measuring equipment in the laboratory
5. laboratory activities, e.g. set-up, commissioning and maintaining instrumentation
6. determination of scientific data through e.g. literature research, experiments, questionnaires, models
7. analysis and interpretation of scientific data
8. writing of publications, participation in conferences
9. supervision of doctoral candidates and students
10. investigation and preparing reports
11. committee work
12. organization of workshops and conferences
13. instruction of, discussion with and knowledge transfer to other support groups
Your profile
A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.
14. very good experience in the field of laser technology and spectroscopy
15. strong background in laser-based spectroscopy, including experience with ultrafast femtosecond light sources
16. experience with ultra-high vacuum technologies and charged particle detectors (ions/electrons)
17. very good experience with data analysis, ideally with Python as the programming language
18. project management experience
19. the candidate must have publications as first author
20. UHV experiences and experiences in electron/ion detector
21. strong organizational and teamwork skills to thrive in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
22. excellent communication in English is necessary; knowledge of German is a plus
23. experimental skills and interest in instrumentation development, with a track record of scientific publications
24. experience with molecular clusters sources is highly desirable
25. very good experience in preparing scientific papers
We offer
26. Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
27. Continuing education opportunities
28. University pensions
29. Attractive location
30. Flexible working hours
31. Work-life balance opportunities
32. Health management, EGYM Wellpass
33. Educational leave
34. 30 days of vacation per annum
Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.
The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.
The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.
Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.