Scientist

Work group:FS-CFEL-XM

Area of research:Other

Starting date:23.10.2026

Job description:DESY

The research activity of the DESY theory group "X-ray Irradiated Materials: Theory and Computation" (FS-CFEL-XM) encompasses computational studies of X-ray irradiated materials and nanoparticles relevant for the areas of materials science, diffractive imaging, plasma, and warm dense matter physics investigated with XFEL and synchrotron light sources, with the focus on possible technology development and potential industrial applications. The group is integrated into the Center of Free-Electron Laser Science CFEL, and collaborates with various experimental and theory groups on the DESY campus and at the European XFEL, as well as with various national and international research partners.

About your role:

• Supervision of theoretical and computational projects within the field of ultrafast X-ray science
• Exploration of the potential applications of project results for industry (technology transfer)
• Maintenance and development of open-source simulation tools to model various X-ray-induced transitions in solid materials
• Code optimisation to enable efficient computations, as well as the open-source release of the simulation tools to user community
• Supervision of PhD students

About you:

• PhD in theoretical physics with focus on interaction of ultrashort laser pulses with solid matter
• Proven excellent expertise in: (I) modelling X-ray-free-electron-laser-induced transient modifications materials out of equilibrium using the FS-CFEL-XM group codes suite (https://xm.cfel.de/research/scientific_software/) (II) large-scale scientific computing, (III) code optimization, and (IV) scientific programming, demonstrated through a respective publication record and extensive code development experience
• Interest in focusing on possible technology development and potential industrial applications of the developed modelling concepts and simulation tools
• Good knowledge of English and strong interpersonal skills
• The ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment
• The ability to work closely with experimental groups

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our staff are central to us, with gender equality forming a key part of this commitment. To support work life balance we offer flexible working hours, variable part-time, job-sharing models and participation in mobile work (up to 50%). You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:Apply now DESY promotes the professional development of women and therefore strongly encourages women to apply for the position to be filled. In addition, severely handicapped persons with equal aptitude are given preferential consideration. The advertised positions are basically suitable for part-time employment.You can find further information here: https://www.desy.de/career/Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESYPersonalabteilung | Notkestraße 85 | 22607 HamburgPhone: +49 40 8998-3392This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.