PhD position "Laser-induced electron diffraction of thermal-energy dynamics" at CFEL in Hamburg, Germany

PhD position "Laser-induced electron diffraction of thermal-energy dynamics" at CFEL in Hamburg, Germany

We have an opening for a PhD/Doctoral student researcher to join our team for the topic of: Atomic-resolution imaging of thermal-energy gas-phase molecular dynamics using laser-induced electron diffraction (LIED). The position will primarily be based at the DESY campus in Hamburg, Germany and is funded via the Centre for Ultrafast Imaging: "Advanced Imaging of Matter" (CUI:AIM) federal cluster of excellence.

In this PhD project, the candidate will use LIED to image the ultrafast elementary steps of chemical dynamics of "everyday (bio)chemistry", at thermal-energy scales similar to room temperature, with atomic resolution (See: https://arxiv.org/abs/2308.09602). The research builds on cutting-edge controlled-molecule preparation and imaging techniques available in our group our experience with ultrafast lasers. It is in close connection with the Theory team of our group and collaboration partners in Hamburg and Berlin.

We are looking for a highly-motivated student, who has completed (or is close to completing) their undergraduate / Masters studies in physics, chemistry or adjacent subject. Experience with the following topics would be beneficial to the position, but is not a strict requisite as training in these subjects will be provided: ultrafast lasers, strong-field science, atomic and molecular physics, diffraction physics, vacuum chamber operation.

The position is open until filled, and as part CUI:AIM's diversity program we strongly encourage women and those of diverse backgrounds to apply for the vacant position.

If you are interested in the position, informal enquires are encouraged by contacting either Matthew Robinson (matthew.robinson@cfel.de) or Jochen Küpper (jochen.kuepper@cfel.de). Additionally, you can submit your application as a single PDF file containing:

  • A brief letter of motivation (max. 1 page)
  • Your curriculum vitae
  • The names and contact information of 2-3 persons who can serve as references (reference letters are not necessarily needed at this point)

Please forward the info below as you see fit; I thank you in advance for bringing these openings to the attention of possible candidates.

Please see also https://www.controlled-molecule-imaging.org/careers for further opportunities, or contact office.kuepper@cfel.de for further information.