Doctoral candidate in physics (25-226-4B)

Doctoral candidate in physics (25-226-4B)

Join to apply for the Doctoral candidate in physics (25-226-4B) role at Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, PTB

The art of measurement — made in Germany. Striving to perfect it is the mission of the 2,100 employees of PTB, the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt. As Germany’s national metrology institute and a leading center of research, we operate in an international environment to develop world‑class measurement standards. We at PTB work to ensure that people and organizations can trust the measurements they use.

At our Braunschweig site, we are looking to fill the following position in Department 4.4 (Time and Frequency).

Remuneration Group 13 TVöD Bund • Three‑year fixed term • Part‑time (33.15 hours/week)

Working Group 4.43 (Optical Clocks with Trapped Ions) has the task to further develop the ^173Yb^+ isotope for use in an optical clock. These investigations build on the many years of successful work with the ^171Yb^+ isotope. Due to the structure of the atomic nucleus of ^173Yb^+, stronger coupling is expected for the block transition, which would have advantages for the optical clock. However, the larger nuclear spin also entails additional requirements for efficient cooling and state preparation. You will support us by performing the following activities:

• Automating clock operation for the two clock transitions of ^173Yb^+
• Investigating stability improvement by simultaneously interrogating multiple ions by various means, including entanglement
• Developing protocols for investigating and using the hyperfine transitions of ^173Yb^+ ions
• Determining systematic frequency shifts for the two clock transitions and drawing up an uncertainty budget
• Expanding the existing Python‑based experimental control system with ARTIQ
• Enhancing existing laser setups
• Performing, evaluating, and analyzing comparison measurements with other optical clocks to verify the systematic uncertainties and to identify violations of the equivalence principle and other effects beyond the standard model
• Presenting the research results at international conferences and in scientific journals

Your profile:

• You have completed your university studies (master’s degree or German Diplom) in physics with an overall grade of “very good” or the equivalent for non‑German degrees.
• You ideally possess knowledge and experience in the following fields: atomic physics, atom‑light interaction, laser cooling of atoms, laser spectroscopy, experimental optics, automated data acquisition, electronics and programming.
• You are highly interested in experimental work and have strong experimental skills.
• You are highly committed and capable of working independently.
• You are a strong team player with excellent communication skills.
• You have achieved C1 level in English. German language skills would be an advantage.
• You are willing to travel for work both in Germany and abroad.

We offer:

You can find an overview of our benefits on our careers page.

This is important to us:

PTB promotes gender equality and strongly encourages applications from female candidates. At the same time, we strive to reflect the diversity of our society. We therefore welcome every application submitted, regardless of the candidate’s gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity. If equally suited to the position, disabled persons or persons having equivalent status under German law will be given preference.

Your application:

For subject‑related questions concerning this position, please contact Department 4.4:

We look forward to receiving your application by 6 January 2026 under Ref. No. 25-226-4B. Please click on the following button: ONLINE APPLICATION. This will directly lead you to our application portal where you can upload your documents (CV, certificates, Cover letter). Unfortunately, we cannot accept applications sent via email. With your application you accept the data protection regulations.

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