PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology (EU MSCA Projec[...]

PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology (EU MSCA Project TRILOGY)

The Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI) conducts fundamental research in nonlinear optics and ultrafast dynamics arising from light–matter interactions, while actively pursuing emerging applications. The institute develops and operates ultrafast and high‑intensity laser systems, as well as laser‑driven short‑pulse light sources spanning a broad spectral range. These capabilities are combined with advanced nonlinear spectroscopic techniques, extending in particular into the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) and soft X‑ray regimes. Experiments at MBI’s in‑house facilities are complemented by access to large‑scale accelerator‑based sources, including free‑electron X‑ray lasers. Through its research, MBI fulfils a national mission and plays a key role within the international scientific community.

Job profile

The EU‑funded Horizon Europe Doctoral Network TRILOGY advances the emerging field of ultrafast chirality by exploiting attosecond light‑driven electron dynamics to overcome the limits of conventional chiro‑optical methods. Targeting applications in the life sciences and advanced technologies, it develops next‑generation, high‑sensitivity spectroscopic tools to excite and probe electron motion in chiral molecules, supported by close collaboration with industrial partners to enable rapid translation into applications.

TRILOGY brings together 11 leading institutions across Europe to train 16 Doctoral Candidates at the forefront of theory and experiment in ultrafast science. The programme offers a unique, interdisciplinary environment and equips researchers with highly competitive skills spanning fundamental physics, technology development, and industry.

Requirements

We seek an outstanding and highly motivated candidate holding a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics with an excellent academic record. The ideal applicant combines strong analytical ability with a genuine interest in theoretical physics and thrives in a collaborative, high‑level research environment. Demonstrated expertise in theoretical approaches to laser–matter interaction and ultrashort laser pulses, along with advanced programming and numerical skills, will be considered a significant advantage.

Applicants must fulfil the transnational mobility requirement of the programme, i.e. they must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Germany for more than 12 months within the 36 months immediately prior to the recruitment date (exceptions apply for compulsory national service or procedures under the Geneva Convention).

At the time of recruitment, applicants must not yet hold a doctoral degree. Candidates who have already defended their thesis but have not formally been awarded the degree are not eligible.

Offer

This full‑time position (39 hours per week) is offered for a fixed term of three years, with a planned start date of October 1, 2026 (or shortly thereafter). The position is funded through the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions and includes a remuneration package in accordance with European Commission guidelines. This comprises a monthly Living Allowance of €4,058.12 and a Mobility Allowance of €710. A Family Allowance of €660 per month is provided where applicable. The above amounts correspond to the gross employer salary and are subject to national taxes and deductions in Germany. Depending on individual circumstances, the resulting gross monthly salary is approximately €3,900 (without family allowance) to €4,450 (with family allowance). Additional support, including a Special Needs Allowance, may be granted in duly justified cases. The position includes standard social benefits, such as 30 days of paid annual leave (based on a five‑day working week) and flexible working arrangements.

The MBI promotes an equity‑based workplace and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. If equally qualified, applicants with a disability will be given preference (Schwerbehinderung nach Sozialgesetzbuch IX).

The MBI supports the reconcilability of family and working life and is certified by the audit workandfamily (audit berufundfamilie) as family‑friendly. MBI is committed to a diverse, prejudice‑aware working environment. The MBI follows the “Charta of Diversity” (Charta der Vielfalt) and implements the Diversity and Inclusion strategy as set up by the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V.

Please upload your application, including cover letter, curriculum vitae, certificates and description of previous professional activities electronically via the MBI online recruiting platform at The position is open until filled. The evaluation is carried out on a rolling basis.

For further information about the project, please contact Dr. Felipe Morales Moreno ( ‑berlin.de) or Prof. Dr. Olga Smirnova ( ‑berlin.de).