Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) for attosecond generation

European XFEL; Deutschland; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 78,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Family-friendly environment

Flexible working hours

Relocation benefits

30 days vacation

Job summary

European XFEL in Germany invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) for attosecond generation in the FEL Physics Group. The role focuses on advancing attosecond pulse generation at SASE2/SASE3 and contributing to the AttoSASE project within the Attosecond strategy program.

You will co-lead the R&D work package, perform simulation studies, and collaborate with DESY colleagues to improve reliability and capabilities while engaging in international research activities.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in FEL or Accelerator physics is required.
• Strong knowledge of FEL physics and simulations.
• Experience with attosecond pulse generation at FELs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform simulation studies to shape radiation properties of attosecond pulses.
• Investigate methods to improve peak power and pulse duration.
• Collaborate with DESY colleague on R&D work package.

Skills

FEL physics

Simulation studies

Attosecond pulses

FEL experiments

Education

PhD in FEL or Accelerator physics

Job description

Organisation/Company European XFEL Research Field Physics Researcher Profile Other Profession Positions Postdoc Positions Application Deadline 20 Nov 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Country Germany Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.

For our FEL Physics group we are looking for an

Postdoctoral Scientist (f/m/d) for attosecond generation

The Position

The successful candidate will join the European XFEL FEL Physics Group to work on the AttoSASE project within the Attosecond strategy program at the European XFEL. Generation of attosecond pulses at SASE3 and SASE2 both in the soft and hard x-ray ranges has been demonstrated. The project involves improving reliability of the delivery and extending generation capabilities. The successful candidate will co-lead the R&D work package of the project together with a colleague hired by DESY for the same purpose. They will jointly fulfill the following tasks and responsibilities:

• Simulation studies of shaping radiation properties along the attosecond pulse
• Simulation studies on further improvement of peak power and duration of the attosecond pulse
• Study of other schemes such as super radiant pulse generation
• Analysis (at SASE 2 and SASE3, together with acceleration operations, photon diagnostics and experiments) of the performance (including the ultimate duration of the pulses), user friendliness of the present scheme(s), and development of operational improvements

Requirements

• Ph.D in FEL or Accelerator physics
• Knowledge of FEL Physics
• FEL simulations experience
• FEL attosecond pulse generation at FELs will be considered an important asset

Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found under www.xfel.eu/careers .

Our offer

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)

Compensation & long-term security

• Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany
• Monthly gross salary range: min. 13/1 with 4.901,11€ - max. 13/6 with 7.025,87€, the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, see current tariff table
• In addition, a scientific allowance is granted
• Depending on the pay group, an annual special payment of 75% of one month’s salary is granted
• 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

Reference number: S-690

Duration: This position is initially limited to 3 years.

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.

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute European X-Ray Free-Electron Laser Facility GmbH Country Germany Geofield