PhD Position in Experimental Research on Exoplanet Atmospheres

Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 085/2026

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.

PhD Position in Experimental Research on Exoplanet Atmospheres

The position is available within the framework of the German Research Foundation (DFG) project “Dust Clouds in Exoplanetary Atmospheres: A Laboratory View”. The project will address a crucial gap in exoplanet atmospheric research by systematically studying the near- and mid‑infrared spectral properties of porous silicate grains and gas‑grain interactions at high temperatures relevant to exoplanet atmospheres. The experimental data will be used to analyse and interpret observational spectra of exoplanet atmospheres, particularly James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) spectra, in collaboration with colleagues from the Max Planck Institute for Astronomy. Various experimental techniques will be employed within the framework of the project, such as laser ablation, infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X‑ray spectroscopy.

at the earliest possible date. This is a part‑time position (75%)

Your responsibilities:

• Learn and apply experimental and analytical techniques
• Presentation of your results at international conferences
• Publication of your results together with partners in internationally renowned journals
• As part of the project, you will have the opportunity to complete your doctorate

Your profile:

• A Master’s degree in experimental physics or chemistry
• Very good written and spoken English skills are required
• You have an interest/knowledge in the field of physics and chemistry of exoplanet atmospheres
• You like to work in a multicultural environment
• Your duties will require traveling and participation in scientific conferences in Germany and abroad

We offer:

• An exciting field of research and scope of activities with creative freedom
• Participation in diverse experimental research with a strong interdisciplinary nature
• Excellent equipment and infrastructure
• Participation in international conferences
• Flexible working hours
• A comprehensive and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development measures
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs
• A family‑friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder’)
• University health promotion and a wide range of university sports activities
• Attractive fringe benefits, e.g. capital formation benefits (VL) and an occupational pension (VBL)
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at 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

We seek to fill the position at the earliest possible date. This is a part‑time position (75%). Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 8 April 2026 using our online form.

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