PhD student - Microstructural Dynamics of Fusion Targets (f/m/d) - 29,25 hours/week

European XFEL; Deutschland; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 59,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Family-friendly environment

Flexible working hours

Remote work options (depending on role

30 days paid vacation

Relocation benefits

Public transport subsidy

Company pension scheme

Job summary

European XFEL invites applications for a PhD research position in EXPLODE, focusing on developing X-ray imaging diagnostics for inertial fusion-relevant targets. The role involves data analysis, method development and preparation for beam time at the facility.

The project offers part-time hours (29.25/wk) with a structured tariff-based compensation under German public service guidelines, and opportunities for international collaboration and professional development.

Qualifications

• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis, preferably Python.
• Motivation to gain practical experience in laboratory work and target fabrication.
• Ability to organize research tasks and communicate results clearly.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to development and application of X-ray imaging methods for laser-driven targets.
• Analyze experimental data and document robust workflows for evaluation.
• Support fabrication and characterization of nanostructured targets.
• Assist with planning and execution of experiments at European XFEL and other facilities.
• Collaborate with colleagues and external partners on studies, simulations and data interpretation.
• Present results in internal reports, conferences, and for a doctoral thesis.

Skills

Python programming

Lab work & instrumentation

Independent & collaborative work

Strong interest in X-ray imaging

Education

Master's degree in Physics or related field

Job description

Organisation/Company European XFEL Department EXPLODE Research Field Physics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 18 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Country Germany Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Part-time Hours Per Week 29.25 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Reference Number 13F1044 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

This PhD project is funded by the BMFTR as part of the "EXPLODE" (Experimental X-ray Platforms for Optimisation and Diagnosis of inertial fusion Energy) research group and is focused on developing X-ray imaging diagnostics together with the HED- HiBEF instrument.
The BMFTR Project code is 13F1044 for the project "Experimentelle Röntgenplattformen zur Optimierung und Diagnose der Trägheitsfusion" (EXPLODE).

• Contribute to the development and application of X-ray imaging methods for the investigation of laser-driven, fusion-relevant targets.
• Analyse experimental data and help establish robust, well-documented workflows for the evaluation of X-ray imaging measurements.
• Support the preparation, fabrication and characterisation of nanostructured targets for experiments.
• Assist with the planning, preparation and execution of experiments at European XFEL and other facilities, including beamtime applications.
• Work with colleagues and external collaborators on experimental studies, simulations, data analysis and interpretation.
• Present results through internal reports, conferences and scientific publications, and a doctoral thesis
• Masters degree in Physics, Materials science, Engineering, Applied Mathematics or a closely related field

Specific Requirements

• Strong interest in X-ray imaging, laser-matter interaction, high energy-density physics or fusion research
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis, preferably in Python or similar language
• Motivation to gain practical experience in laboratory work, target fabrication, microscopy, and large-scale experimental facilities
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, organise research tasks effectively and communicate scientific results

The following qualification would be beneficial:

• Previous experience with large-scale user facility experiments
• Familiarity with x-ray diagnostics (imaging, diffraction, scattering techniques)
• Practical experience with laboratory work: microscopy, materials characterisation or nanostructured materials

Languages ENGLISH Level Excellent

Additional Information

Become part of a vibrant international and multi-cultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.
Work-life balance & flexibility

• A family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
• Flexible working hours and options to work from home (depending on your role and tasks)
• 30 days of paid vacation, plus December 24th and 31st off (granted by the employer)
• The position is offered in part-time, with 29.25 hours a week

Compensation & long-term security

• Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany
• Salary: min. 13/1 with 4,901.11 € - max 13/2 with 5,279.32 € (values for full time will be adjusted according to the part-time model); the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, here is the link to the current valid tariff table
• Depending on the pay group, we offer an annual special payment of 75-95% of one month’s salary
• Partially funded public transportation Deutschlandticket
• Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of your monthly salary)

Support from day one

• Extensive relocation benefits to help you settle in smoothly
• English as company language, enabling easy collaboration in our international environment
• Extensive training opportunities, including subsidized English and German language courses
• Subsidized sports membership with access to over 7,000 sport clubs
• Monthly social events and company restaurant with employee discounts
• Free access to a professional mental health support platform

Selection process

The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.