Jena offers a highly attractive research environment with an integrated network of natural and life science research groups, characterized by close collaborations between the university, non-university research institutes, and numerous companies active in the fields of optics, photonics, and quantum technologies. To further enhance the location's profile, the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy of the Friedrich Schiller University Jena invites applications for the position of a
Professor (W3 / W2 with Tenure Track to W3) for
Materials and/or devices for Photonics and Quantum Technologies
We are seeking an internationally recognized researcher with in-depth knowledge and experience in materials science/solid-state physics, specializing in photonics/quantum technologies, documented by outstanding research achievements. Potential research focuses include the synthesis and/or application of ceramics/perovskites, thin films, wide-bandgap materials, defects, doping, and color centers, etc., in nanoscale and/or quantum optical devices for photonic and quantum optical applications. The primary focus of the research will be on material synthesis, processing, and characterization, and/or the development of devices for photonics and quantum technologies. This research can be complemented by digital methods of process simulation and optimization, as well as machine learning. Requirements include an outstanding PhD in materials science or solid-state physics, research results related to photonics/quantum technologies, excellent publications and/or patents, experience in acquiring and carrying out third-party funded projects and project acquisition, as well as leadership skills.
To actively contribute to the further development of the site's profile, close collaboration with other research groups at the University of Jena and intensive interaction with thematically aligned institutes and companies within an existing and growing network are expected. This also includes participation in and membership of the Abbe Center of Photonics (ACP) and the "Light" research focus area, as well as involvement in coordinated collaborative projects. Our future colleague will collaborate across disciplines and contribute with his/her knowledge to the dialogue with society.
The teaching duties of the professorship include active participation in the general courses of the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy. Furthermore, the successful candidate will play a leading role in the development of a dual-study program in Physics (BSc) or an international four-year BSc in STEM subjects.
The requirements for an appointment include a completed university degree, a doctorate, a habilitation or equivalent academic achievement, as well as pedagogical aptitude. Appointments as a professor are made as a tenured civil servant, provided the legal requirements are met. In the case of a first-time appointment to a professorship, the position will initially be a W2 professorship for a fixed term of six years. After six years at the latest, based on a positive tenure evaluation, the position will be converted to a permanent W3 professorship without further advertisement.
Friedrich Schiller University Jena aims to increase the proportion of women in research and teaching and therefore strongly encourages applications from suitably qualified female scientists. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference if equally qualified.
Applications should include a comprehensive academic CV, a list of publications and presentations, documentation of teaching activities with evaluation results, a report on previous academic activities including a record of external funding, a description of research interests and planned research projects, and should be submitted electronically via the University of Jena's recruitment portal at
by March 22, 2026 to:
Friedrich Schiller University Jena
Dean of the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy
Max-Wien-Platz 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
E-Mail: dekanat-paf@uni-jena.de
For questions and information about the procedure, please contact the Dean of the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, Prof. Dr. Ulf Peschel ( dekanat-paf@uni-jena.de ).