Research Associate (f/m/d) Silicon Technologies

Deutsches Zentrum für Astrophysik gGmbH; Görlitz; Vor Ort; EUR 52.000 - 68.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

The Deutsches Zentrum für Astrophysik gGmbH invites applications for a Research Associate (f/m/d) to join the Center for Technology Development in Lusatia, Germany. The role centers on mirror and bonding technologies for next-generation gravitational-wave detectors, with emphasis on ultra-high-purity silicon substrates and cryogenic contexts.

Fixed-term initially for two years, TVöD Bund E13 scale. You will perform materials science, optical and thermo-mechanical characterization, develop

Qualifikationen

• PhD in Physics, Materials or related experimental field.
• Experience in two or more relevant areas from the profile.
• Strong background in optical metrology or interferometry.

Aufgaben

• Conduct research on mirror systems for next-generation detectors, focusing on ultra-high-purity silicon substrates.
• Characterize mirrors and components using optical, thermo-mechanical, and materials science methods.
• Develop, test, and evaluate bonding processes for silicon components.
• Contribute to process chains for bonding, handling, polishing, coating and qualification of mirror components.
• Collaborate with national and international partners and publish results in journals and conferences.
• Supervise Bachelor’s and Master’s students where appropriate.

Kenntnisse

Optical metrology

Interferometry

Cryogenics

Silicon technologies

Python

COMSOL

Experimental research

English

Ausbildung

PhD in Physics/Materials/Engineering

Tools

COMSOL

Python

Jobbeschreibung

The German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) is being established as a new large-scale research center in Lusatia, Germany. Its mission is to strengthen astrophysics in Germany, foster scientific excellence, and make a lasting contribution to the structural transformation of the region. As an internationally oriented research institution with a strong focus on innovation, the DZA will create new opportunities for scientific leadership while shaping the future of one of Germany's most dynamic research landscapes.

The following position is to be filled at the earliest possible date, initially for a fixed term of two years (employment in accordance with the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act – WissZeitVG):

Research Associate (f/m/d)

Focus on Mirror and Bonding Technologies for Next-Generation Gravitational-Wave Detectors

(Remuneration up to German public service pay grade TVöD Bund E13, subject to the successful candidate meeting the relevant requirements)

Within the DZA’s Center for Technology Development, a new research and technology area for silicon technologies is currently being established. The focus is on the development, fabrication, and characterization of ultra-high-purity silicon components as well as innovative bonding technologies for cryogenic mirror and test-mass systems of future gravitational-wave detectors.

Your Responsibilities:

• Conduct scientific research on mirror systems for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors, with a particular focus on ultra-high-purity silicon substrates
• Perform materials science, optical, and thermo-mechanical characterization of mirrors and mirror components
• Investigate thermo‑optical and thermo‑mechanical properties at room temperature and possibly under cryogenic conditions
• Develop, test, and evaluate bonding processes for silicon components
• Contribute to the development of process chains for bonding, handling, polishing, coating, and qualification of mirror components
• Analyze and interpret experimental data
• Support the setup, operation, and further development of experimental laboratory and measurement environments in compliance with applicable safety, quality, and documentation standards
• Collaborate with national and international research partners and publish scientific results in peer‑reviewed journals and at international conferences
• Contribute to the supervision of Bachelor’s and Master’s students

Your Profile:

• Completed university degree and PhD in Physics, Materials and Surface Science, Engineering, or a related experimental field
• Experience in at least two of the following areas:
• (Quantum) optics and optical precision metrology
• Experimental optical or mechanical characterization methods
• Materials science (e.g., silicon technologies, optical materials, surface and interface physics)
• Cryogenic and vacuum technologies
• Experience in experimental scientific research in laboratory or technology environments
• Interest in research topics related to gravitational-wave physics and optical precision measurement systems
• Experience in scientific research and publication
• Experience with optical characterization, interferometric methods, or bonding technologies,
• Knowledge of numerical simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, Python)
• Experience with cryogenic or vacuum‑based experimental environments
• Independent and structured working style, strong teamwork skills, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Excellent written and spoken English skills

We Offer:

• The opportunity to help establish Germany's largest research center dedicated to astrophysics
• The chance to actively contribute to the scientific and economic transformation of the Lusatia region
• Significant freedom to shape a new research and technology division and contribute to pioneering scientific developments
• An international, interdisciplinary, and highly collaborative working environment with leading experts from academia and industry
• Competitive remuneration in accordance with the German public service pay scale (TVöD Bund), including annual special payments and an attractive benefits package
• Flexible working hours, family-friendly working conditions, and opportunities for part‑time employment

The DZA is committed to increasing the representation of women in science and therefore particularly encourages qualified women to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons and individuals with equivalent status under German social law are also expressly welcomed. Where candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.