Research Associate for the ERC Project "KEBAB"

A Research Associate (postdoctoral researcher) position is currently open in the DESY Attosecond Science Group within the Center for Free Electron Laser Science (CFEL) in Hamburg. The position focuses on developing a novel chiroptical platform for studying molecular recognition dynamics in the gas phase and is funded under the ERC grant KEBAB led by Dr. Vincent Wanie. The initial contract lasts 2 years with a possibility of extension.

About your role

• Design and implement laser-based studies of ultrafast processes in chiral matter, emphasizing chiroptical observables
• Develop few-femtosecond light sources, including a high‑repetition‑rate VUV (<200 nm) source with variable polarisation
• Operate, commission, and maintain advanced experimental instrumentation, including ultrafast laser systems and vacuum‑based detection setups
• Integrate novel measurement techniques, including charged‑particle detection schemes for photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD)
• Acquire, process, and analyze experimental data, supported by numerical modeling and literature‑driven contextualisation
• Prepare scientific publications and technical reports
• Actively participate in international conferences and workshops, presenting research results
• Execute experimental campaigns at large‑scale facilities (e.g., synchrotrons and free‑electron lasers), including on‑site coordination
• Contribute to the strategic development of the ERC project, identifying new experimental directions and collaborations
• Engage with international collaborators, coordinating joint experimental campaigns and integrating complementary theoretical and experimental approaches

About you

• PhD in physics or a closely related field
• Ability to independently design and implement experimental approaches while working effectively within an interdisciplinary team
• Hands‑on experience with one or more of the following: hollow‑core fibers, optical parametric amplifiers, high‑power femtosecond laser systems
• Experience with ultra‑high vacuum technologies, molecular sources, and charged‑particle detection (electrons/ions)
• Background in molecular spectroscopy and experience in the analysis of electron and/or ion data
• Excellent track record of scientific publications, demonstrating strong scientific writing skills
• Excellent knowledge of English

DESY offers a secure workplace and comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV‑AVH. Flexible working hours and variable part‑time options are available. A financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland‑Ticket) is provided at both locations.

DESY promotes the professional development of women and therefore strongly encourages women to apply. Persons with severe handicaps with equal aptitude are given preferential consideration.

See the summarized employment details: Country Germany; Type of contract: To be defined; Start date: 15 Apr 2026; Funding: Not funded by an EU programme; Job related to research infrastructure: No.