PhD Student in Nanobiophotonics Research Department (m/f/d) in Jena

The Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technologies (Leibniz IPHT) is seeking to fill the following position in the Nanobiophotonics Research Department, Molecular Plasmonics Working Group, starting 1st October 2026:

PhD Student (m/f/d)

on a part-time basis (65%). The position is limited to three years. An extension will be sought if suitable.

The Leibniz-IPHT is a university independent research institute with close connection to the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and member of the Leibniz association.

The Molecular Plasmonics working group focuses on exploiting the potential of plasmonic effects in hybrid nanostructures and metal nanoparticles. On the one hand, these nanostructures enable applications in medical diagnostics, food and water analysis, and environmental technology. On the other hand, plasmonic nanostructures can also be actively used as optical antennas and thus be employed for the targeted manipulation of biomolecules as well as for applications in catalysis and materials processing.

Your field of activity includes:

Your responsibilities will include the development of bioanalytical assays for the specific detection of pollutants and biomarkers. Diagnostic detection should be achieved using optical (LSPR) sensor technology based on plasmonic nanostructures in microarray arrangements and as individual assays.

Your qualifications:

Completed university degree (diploma/master's/master's in engineering) in biochemistry, biology, or related subjects

Desired knowledge and skills:

Knowledge of molecular biology, bioanalytics, immunoassays, and/or microarray techniques
Experimental skills and analytical thinking
Highly motivated, systematic and independent way of working
Interest in interdisciplinary work
Good written and spoken English

We offer:

An open welcoming culture and an inclusive and interdisciplinary working environment: Located on the Beutenberg campus in Jena, Leibniz-IPHT is home to more than 400 employees from around the world working at the interface of physics, biochemistry, technology, data science and medicine to develop the photonic technologies of tomorrow.
World-class equipment and facilities: Leibniz-IPHT has a large number of physics, chemistry and biology laboratories at the highest level. It also has state-of-the-art fiber drawing and clean room facilities as well as microfluidics fabrication and big data computing facilities.
Thorough and comprehensive personal training: Transferring good practices in scientific working and outreach is one of our main focus points. In a respectful and appreciative environment, you will learn everything you need for a career inside and outside of science. Moreover, plenty of workshops and opportunities for scientific exchange are offered by the Leibniz IPHT, as well as the Abbe School of Photonics and the Graduate Academy of the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena.
A family-friendly working environment with support offers for the compatibility of family and work (e.g. parent-child office, campus kindergarten places, advice on family care situations from trained care guides and much more).
Flexible working time models as well as 30 days vacation/year, special annual payment and bridge days.
Jena - City of Science: a young city with a vibrant local cultural agenda!

Salary:

Salary is in accordance with the regulations of the TV-L and your qualifications and experience.

We are a modern, internationally focused research institute. Work-life balance is one of our central concerns. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality or ethnic and social origin. If women are underrepresented in the area of the advertised position, they will be given preferential consideration in the hiring process if they are equally qualified.

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Leibniz-Institut für Photonische Technologien e. V.