Doctoral Research Positions

Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 242/2026
Closing date:

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Libert"y, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Institute of Solid State Physics seeks to fill within the frame of the ERC grant ATHENS two

Doctoral Research Positions

by the end of the year. We offer part-time positions (75%, 30 hours per week, salary group E 13 TV-L) based on a fixed-term contract initially limited up to 3 years.

The respective group ( is studying the synthesis, modification and characterization of nano-scale solids, where photonic integrated circuits (PICs) are in focus. A variety of different ion beam techniques are used for these proposes, especially to manipulate the optical properties of materials or to analyse them.

Your responsibilities:

We invite applications for PhD projects focused on cutting-edge research in the optical properties of ion-beam modified materials. Depending on your academic background and interests, the project may explore:

• Ion beam doping of photonic integrated circuits
• Ion slicing of optical materials

Your profile:

• You hold a Master's degree (or equivalent) in physics or materials science
• You have strong communication skills in English, both written and spoken
• You are eager to work in an interdisciplinary, dynamic, and international team

We offer:

• An excellent research environment within local, national and international networks
• Excellent equipment and infrastructure
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates
• A comprehensive further and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development measures
• A family-friendly working environment
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at / up to salary scale 13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

These are part-time positions with 75% of the working hours of a full-time employee.

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to Data privacy and information for applicants