The Ultrafast Coherent Dynamics Research Group (Prof. Wollenhaupt) is seeking a research assistant ( ) to start as soon as possible, initially on a fixed-term (project-based) contract until 30 September 2025. The post offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD.

The aim of the research project is to investigate new concepts for controlling ultrafast non-adiabatic molecular dynamics using polarisation-tailored femtosecond laser pulses. In particular, modern techniques for polarisation-controlled pulse shaping and imaging photoelectron spectroscopy will be employed to investigate the control of light-induced non-adiabatic dynamics in small molecules in the gas phase. This research is part of the DyNano research network, funded by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture. We offer a highly interdisciplinary scientific environment and provide expertise and scientific infrastructure for collaborative cutting-edge research with national and international partners.

We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a relevant higher education qualification (Master’s degree or equivalent) in physics and an interest in the coherent control of ultrafast molecular dynamics. Practical experience in at least one of the following areas is required: generation and characterisation of femtosecond laser pulses, imaging photoelectron spectroscopy and high-vacuum technology. Experimental expertise in femtosecond pulse shaping is ideal. Good written and spoken English, strong communication skills and the ability to work within an interdisciplinary international team are also essential. Experience in programming and data analysis is desirable.

Carl von Ossietzky University is committed to increasing the proportion of women in academia. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance with Section 21(3) of the Lower Saxony Higher Education Act (NHG), female applicants with equivalent qualifications will be given preferential consideration. People with severe disabilities will be given priority in recruitment where qualifications are equal.

Please send your application in a single PDF file, including a short covering letter, CV, copies of university certificates and a list of publications (if applicable), by email to Dr Tim Bayer (tim.bayer@uol.de). Please quote the reference number B1.2CoIn2024 in your application and in all correspondence relating to this post.

Click here for the official job advertisement

The post is initially for a fixed term of 3 years and offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD.

The ULTRA research focus is on the coherent control of ultrafast quantum dynamics in atoms and molecules using shaped femtosecond laser pulses. The aim of this research project is to investigate novel possibilities for coherent control in customised three-dimensional (3D) femtosecond laser fields. The 3D fields are generated by the non-collinear superposition of two polarisation-shaped femtosecond laser beams with different central wavelengths. The interaction of selected quantum systems with the new 3D light fields is observed using imaging photoelectron spectroscopy. A sub-objective of the project is the development of a technique for the tomographic reconstruction of the 3D photoelectron momentum distribution.

We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a relevant university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in physics and an interest in the coherent control of ultrafast quantum dynamics. Practical experience in at least one of the following areas is required: generation and characterisation of femtosecond laser pulses, imaging photoelectron spectroscopy and high-vacuum technology. Experimental expertise in femtosecond pulse shaping is ideal. Good written and spoken English, as well as strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team, are also required. Experience in programming and data analysis is desirable.

Carl von Ossietzky University is committed to increasing the proportion of women in academia. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. In accordance with Section 21(3) of the Lower Saxony Higher Education Act (NHG), female applicants with equivalent qualifications shall be given preferential consideration. People with severe disabilities will be given priority in recruitment where qualifications are equal.

Please send your application in a single PDF file, including a short covering letter, CV, copies of university certificates and a list of publications (if applicable), preferably by email to Dr Tim Bayer (tim.bayer@uol.de). Please quote the reference number DFG-3D in your application and in all correspondence relating to this post.