PhD Student

You want to work in a collaborative project between Princeton, Chicago and Leipzig ? You want to explore the foundations of molecular interactions that are the basis of liquid chromatography and molecular separation? You want to apply advanced tools of thermofluidics ? And you have a master in physics and you are highly motivated to discover new things? Then this is for you!

The Molecular Nanophotonics Group at the Faculty of Physics and Earth System Sciences at Leipzig University is currently offering a doctoral researcher position under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Frank Cichos. The position is part of NSF-DFG Mission collaborative project between Leipzig University, Princeton University and the University of Illinois at Chicago on

“Thermofluidic Manipulation of Nanoparticle Dynamics at Chromatographic Interfaces”

We seek to fill the above position as soon as possible (May 1, 2025).

The collaborative project combines the expertise of the Yang group at Princeton University on nanoparticle DNA functionalization, the Snee group at University of Chicago on quantum dot synthesis and the Cichos group at Leipzig University on thermofluidic manipulation of single molecules.

The objective of this project is to integrate these three areas of expertise to elucidate the fundamental principles governing liquid chromatography and molecular interactions at chromatographic interfaces through precisely controlled experiments.

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate with an excellent master’s degree in physics and excellent English proficiency. A strong background in optical microscopy and particular single molecule detection is of advantage.

The successful candidate will conduct cutting-edge thermofluidic manipulation experiments utilizing plasmonic substrates, functionalized quantum dots, and single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. The candidate will also contribute to the development of novel microfluidic techniques.

The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong commitment to collaborative and interdisciplinary teamwork across the three collaborating groups. Excellent oral and written communication skills are essential for this role. The experimental work will provide the successful candidate with the opportunity to acquire expert skills and knowledge of innovative single-molecule manipulation methods applied to a highly relevant topic of molecular separation.

Salaries will be according to DFG standards.

Applications including 1) a letter of interest (max. 1 page), clearly stating the specific motivation of the candidate to join the group, work on this project, career goals, etc., 2) a CV, 3) grade transcripts or equivalent record of excellent academic performance, clearly indicating courses taken and grades in each course (for MS and BS), 4) the names of at least two consenting referees should be sent to The application deadline is March 15, 2025 .

Please visit our group website for more details about our research:

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Education and Training
• Industries

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