Postdoctoral Scientist for X-ray Beam Diagnostics (30 keV upgrade) (f/m/d)

Organisation/Company DESY Research Field Physics Researcher Profile Other Profession Positions Postdoc Positions Country Germany Application Deadline 14 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Hours Per Week 39 Offer Starting Date 15 Jan 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Other EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.

For our X-Ray Photon Diagnostics group we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Scientist for X-ray Beam Diagnostics
(30 keV upgrade) (f/m/d)

The Position

Your mission is to deliver the next‑generation diagnostics for European XFEL’s very hard X‑ray range.
You will:

• Extend existing gas-based diagnostics into the very hard x-ray range (beyond 24keV): measure and validate reference data in synchrotron beamtimes together with our international collaborators.
• Advance solid-state monitors: deploy new diamond sensors, model their charge transport and test their dynamic range; implement online single‑shot beam‑position and pulse‑energy monitoring.
• Lead in‑situ studies at European XFEL: acquire and analyze data, cross‑correlate with other diagnostics.
• Optimize operations: characterize uncertainties and build an automated, real‑time selector for the most accurate diagnostic.
• Publish experiment and simulation results, and present them at international conferences.

You will collaborate closely with teams at European XFEL, DESY, and international partners in a supportive, interdisciplinary environment.

Requirements

• PhD in physics or a closely related field (or equivalent research experience).
• Proven track record of scientific communication: peer‑reviewed publications and conference presentations in English.
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for collaborative work with teams at European XFEL and beyond.
• Hands‑on experience at free‑electron lasers and/or synchrotrons.
• Experience with detector development, and/or gas‑based beam diagnostics.
• Proficiency in Python for data processing and analysis.
• Working knowledge of analogue electronics and basic vacuum techniques.

Working place will be Schenefeld in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found here .

Our offer

Become part of a vibrant international and multicultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.

Salary and benefits are similar to those of public service organizations in Germany, this includes for example:

• family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
• flexible working times and option for work from home depending on tasks
• 30days of vacation, 24th and 31st of December are free as a courtesy of the employer
• generous company pension scheme (6,45% of monthly salary)
• monthly social events and subsidized company restaurant
• partially financed job-tickets for public transportation
• extensive training opportunities incl. subsidized English and German language classes
• easy and free access to a mental health platform to support your well‑being

Our company language is English.

Reference number: S-619

Duration: This appointment is initially limited to 3 years, an extension is possible by later decision.

Application

Please apply online and provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.

The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.