Scientist (f/m/d) for Electron Spectroscopy of Functional Materials

Reference No.: PS 2025/9

Research with synchrotron radiation is our passion.
Our focus lies on the electronic structure and dynamics at fundamental time and length scales – in both functional materials and molecular systems. We operate at the level of atomic interactions and make them visible through high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy.
At the Uppsala-Berlin Joint Lab of Next Generation Electron Spectroscopy, we use and further develop state-of-the-art electron spectroscopy techniques. Our work centers not only on precise measurement methods, but especially on their in-depth scientific interpretation. This allows us to gain fundamental insights into bonding, material structure, and ultrafast dynamics – uncovering the origins of functionality at the atomic level. As a PhD-level scientist, you will conduct your own research and contribute to user operations. You will work in an international, interdisciplinary environment with direct access to world-leading methods in electron spectroscopy.

Your Tasks

• You conduct electron spectroscopy with soft X-rays in the Uppsala-Berlin joint Lab of Next Generation Electron Spectroscopy based on modern computer-aided detection and analysis methods.
• You determine physical and chemical properties of functional materials and molecular systems in their native state and in non-equilibrium.
• You operate, improve and develop soft X-ray spectroscopy experiments and analytical tools crucial to users’ operation and the research goals within the Helmholtz program.
• You take part in collaborative work and support of PhD students and students at all levels of education.
• You communicate your results through publication and conference participation.

Your Profile

• PhD in functional materials, physics or chemistry, preferably with a focus on X-ray spectroscopic methods.
• Proven track record of interpreting complex synchrotron radiation experimental data.
• Excellent capabilities in the use of modern analytic tools and computer based evaluation of soft X-ray spectroscopic data.
• Fluent knowledge of English is required.
• The willingness to acquire basic German skills is appreciated.

Your Benefits at HZB

• Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
• Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
• Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office
• Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
• 30 days holiday/year
• Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
• Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
• And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!

Fixed term contract for 24 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).

How to apply

Note: The advertised position is a parental leave replacement. We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by 14.08.2025. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by any other means (such as email or mail) in the application process.

We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.

Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH
Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109 Berlin
www.helmholtz-berlin.de

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Climate change poses serious challenges to the whole world.
At Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, we are researching materials for a climate-neutral future. 1200 employees from all over the world are working together at HZB towards this goal. Join us, and help us achieve it!
Learn more about HZB on our website.

CONTACT

Prof. Dr. Alexander Föhlisch
+49 30 8062 - 14985
alexander.foehlisch@helmholtz-berlin.de

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