Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) focusing on complex ultrafast laser-matter interactions

Ruhr-Universität Bochum; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 45.000 - 58.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research university in Germany is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to explore light-matter interactions with a focus on nonlinear optics. The role involves conducting high-impact research using advanced laser systems and aims at contributing to significant publications. Ideal candidates will hold a PhD and possess a strong background in laser physics and ultrafast laser technologies. The position offers a competitive salary based on German collective agreements and professional development opportunities.

Leistungen

Extensive training and professional development opportunities

Health support in the workplace

Cultural offerings in the Ruhr metropolitan region

Qualifikationen

• Conduct ambitious, high-risk/high-gain research targeting high-impact publications.
• Design and build experimental platforms.
• Plan and execute experiments with rigorous data acquisition and analysis.

Aufgaben

• Write scientific reports, manuscripts, and contribute to grant proposals.
• Participate actively in group meetings, present your research.

Kenntnisse

Strong background in light–matter interactions

Nonlinear optics

Laser physics

Ultrafast laser-material processing

Scientific communication in English

Ausbildung

PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or related field

Tools

Ultrafast laser systems

Jobbeschreibung

Electrical Engineering and Information Sciences

Organisation/Company Ruhr-Universität Bochum Department Electrical Engineering and Information Sciences Research Field Physics » Optics Engineering » Electronic engineering Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions Postdoc Positions Country Germany Application Deadline 31 Dec 2025 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 40 Offer Starting Date 1 Feb 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Horizon Europe - ERC Reference Number 101055055 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

The Chair of Nonlinearity Engineering (NLE) explores both the fundamental principles and practical implementation of how nonlinear systems can be designed to evolve toward target structures or functionalities through self‑organisation. Our focus lies on modelocked lasers and complex laser–matter interactions as both model systems and experimental tools. Our interdisciplinary research combines laser physics, nonlinear dynamics, and light–matter interaction, driven by fundamental scientific curiosity and long‑term technological visions. We pursue applications ranging from next‑generation laser technology and precision material processing to laser‑driven self‑assembly and surgery, all the way to a long‑term vision of developing an “Atom Printer” based on laser‑induced self‑organisation. English is the working language of the group.

We seek a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in light–matter interactions and a strong background in the underlying physics. The position is funded by the ERC Advanced Grant UNILASE. The research will explore collective interactions of bursts of ultrashort pulses at repetition rates from ~100 GHz to ~1 THz with diverse forms of matter, using unique laser systems developed in-house, with an eye toward uncovering new physical effects and enabling novel applications. Topics of interest include laser ablation and material removal, laser‑driven pattern formation and self‑assembly, and accessing exotic or non‑equilibrium states of matter, classical or potentially quantum, with considerable flexibility. We are particularly interested in researchers who can drive original investigations with the potential for high‑impact publications in leading journals.

• PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in light–matter interactions and nonlinear optics, with a deep understanding of the underlying physics. Experience in laser physics is a plus.
• Experience in one or more of the following is an advantage: ultrafast laser‑material processing, laser‑induced pattern formation or self‑organisation, pump‑probe or ultrafast imaging techniques, plasma diagnostics, hands‑on work with ultrafast laser systems.
• Strong scientific communication skills in English.

Specific Requirements

• Conduct ambitious, high‑risk/high‑gain research targeting high‑impact publications.
• Design and build experimental platforms.
• Plan and execute experiments, with rigorous data acquisition and analysis.
• Write scientific reports, manuscripts, and contribute to grant proposals.
• Participate actively in group meetings, present your research, and contribute intellectually to shaping future research directions.

Languages ENGLISH

Additional Information

• Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence
• Extensive training and professional development opportunities
• A job in the heart of the lively Ruhr metropolitan region with its diverse cultural offerings
• A comprehensive offer to strengthen health in the workplace

Additional comments

The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.

The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third‑party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.