PhD Student Physics (m/f/d)

The Cluster of Excellence ctd.qmat - Complexity, Topology and Dynamics in Quantum Matter ( at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg and Technische Universität Dresden explores and develops novel quantum materials with tailored properties. Around 300 researchers from over 30 countries work at the interface of physics, chemistry, and materials science to lay the foundations for tomorrow’s technologies. In 2026, the cluster entered the second funding period of the German Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments - with an expanded focus on the dynamics of quantum processes.

For TUD Dresden University of Technology diversity is an essential feature and a quality criterion of an excellent university. Accordingly, we welcome all applicants who would like to commit themselves, their achievements and productivity to the success of the whole institution.

At the Faculty of Physics , the Junior Research Group “Quantum Critical Matter” at the Institute of Theoretical Physics offers a position as Research Associate / PhD Student (m/f/x) (subject to personal qualification employees are remunerated according to salary group E 13 TV‑L) starting as soon as possible . The position is limited to 3 years and comprises 75% of the full time weekly hours. The period of employment is governed by the Fixed Term Research Contracts Act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz - WissZeitVG). The position offers the chance to obtain further academic qualification (usually PhD).

Activities and responsibilities

The Junior Research Group “Quantum Critical Matter” studies novel phases and phase transitions in quantum many‑body systems. The group is part of the Würzburg‑Dresden Cluster of Excellence “Complexity, Topology and Dynamics in Quantum Matter” and the DFG‑funded Collaborative Research Center 1143 “Correlated Magnetism: From Frustration to Topology”. Possible tasks for this position include the investigation of novel quantum phases in correlated electron systems and frustrated quantum magnets, using numerical or analytical many‑body techniques.

Qualification profile

• Very good university degree in physics or a related area
• Interest in problems of theoretical condensed matter
• Willingness to collaborate with experimental and numerical groups

Benefits

More information on the Junior Research Group can be found under If you have questions, please contact Dr. Lukas Janssen via phone or