PhD student (m/f/d) on joint German-French project on ultrafast dynamics of photoswitches

PhD Student (m/f/d) – Joint German‑French Project on Ultrafast Dynamics of Photoswitches

The Max‑Born Institute invites applications for a PhD student for the joint German‑French project “FEMTO‑switch”, funded by the DFG and ANR. The project aims to determine how the chemical structure of ultrafast photoswitches governs the molecular energetics and excited‑state dynamics at conical intersections. Experimental research will focus on femtosecond photoelectron spectroscopy (TRPES) in liquids, complemented by quantum‑chemical calculations.

Project Objectives

Develop time‑resolved photoelectron spectroscopy in the liquid phase with UV pump and XUV probe for biomimetic chromophores at low concentrations; investigate oxindole‑based and oxopyrrole‑based chromophores.

Expected Results

Enhance sensitivity and stability of TRPES for various solvents and low‑solubility solutes; establish experimental protocols for biomimetic samples; conduct experimental and theoretical studies of oxindole switches in collaboration with project partners; elucidate dynamics of novel biomimetic switches developed in FEMTO‑switch.

Techniques to be Used

Time‑resolved photoelectron spectroscopy in liquids using femtosecond XUV pulses.

Requirements

• Master’s or Diploma degree in chemistry or physics.
• Strong knowledge in femtosecond molecular dynamics and ultrafast laser physics.
• Prior experience in ultrafast spectroscopy is advantageous.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.

Offer

The position is available immediately and will remain open until May 15, 2026. Compensation follows the German TVöD salary scheme for scientists in public research institutions (part‑time 75 % for PhD students). The institute promotes an equity‑based workplace and strongly encourages applications from women and applicants with disabilities. The workplace is family‑friendly and committed to diversity and inclusion.

The role will be supervised by Dr. Oleg Kornilov at the physics department of Freie Universität Berlin.