For our location in Hamburg we are seeking:
Limited: 3 years | Starting date: earliest possible | ID: FSPO004/2026 | Deadline: 19.02.2026 | Full-time/Part-time
DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.
DESY looks back on a long tradition in synchrotron radiation experiment in a wide range of applications and has developed into one of the leading research centres worldwide. Serving for the high impact synchrotron radiation applications, the 3rd generation source PETRA III is available since 2009 as one of the most brilliant hard X-ray sources worldwide. Additionally, DESY has a strong background in developing new laser systems for various applications. In the IFuEL (Inertial Fusion Laser Development und HED-Analytics) project under the Fusion 2040 call of the BMFTR DESY has been contracted to develop a highly efficient YLF laser and test the laser by creating a Fusion relevant plasma in a H2/He jet to radiate Plasma Facing Materials (PFM) with changed particles originating from the plasma. For the development and commissioning of a target chamber that will house the interaction point for the plasma generation we are seeking an enthusiastic young scientist in the rank of a postdoctoral fellow with the following expertise and the duties specified:
- Development of concept for the radiation of plasma facing materials (PFM) in IFuEL test experiment with changed particles created in a H2/He jet that is targeted by the new YLF laser
- Commissioning of a vacuum chamber that holds the H2/He jet for the radiation of PFM
- Documentation, reporting and publishing the results
- Scientific research area of inertial fusion in conjunction with PFM
Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. To support work life balance we offer flexible working hours and variable part-time. You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.
Limited: 3 years
- PhD in physics, plasma physics, chemistry, mineralogy or equivalent is required
- Excellent research and communication skills (English)
- Experience in the operation of high-energy laser experiments including the assembly and commissioning of a vacuum capable target chamber is useful
- Understanding powder and single crystal X-ray diffraction and crystal structure analysis is helpful
- Willingness to work in a large group of scientists with different background
- Active scientific research projects in the area of laser shock compression possibly related to PFM is useful
- Experience in laser physics is helpful
- Experience in user support at a large-scale facility can be helpful but is not required
For further information please contact Hanns-Peter Liermann at +49 40 8998-5722 (hanns-peter.liermann@desy.de).
Please submit your complete application documents (letter of motivation, CV and relevant certificates).
We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:
Apply now
DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us and therefore we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position. Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified (sbv.desy.de).
You can find further information here:
https://www.desy.de/career/
Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Personalabteilung
Notkestraße 85
22607 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 8998-3392
Deadline for applications: 20.02.2026
