PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology (EU MSCA Project TRILOGY) in Berlin

PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology (EU MSCA Project TRILOGY)

The Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI) conducts fundamental research in nonlinear optics and ultrafast dynamics arising from light-matter interactions, while actively pursuing emerging applications. The institute develops and operates ultrafast and high-intensity laser systems, as well as laser-driven short-pulse light sources spanning a broad spectral range. These capabilities are combined with advanced nonlinear spectroscopic techniques, extending in particular into the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) and soft X-ray regimes. Experiments at MBI's in-house facilities are complemented by access to large-scale accelerator-based sources, including free-electron X-ray lasers. Through its research, MBI fulfils a national mission and plays a key role within the international scientific community. The Max-Born-Institute invites applications for a

PhD student (m/f/d)

in the field of

Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology

(EU MSCA Project TRILOGY)

Job profile:

The EU-funded Horizon Europe Doctoral Network TRILOGY advances the emerging field of ultrafast chirality by exploiting attosecond light-driven electron dynamics to overcome the limits of conventional chiro-optical methods. Targeting applications in the life sciences and advanced technologies, it develops next-generation, high-sensitivity spectroscopic tools to excite and probe electron motion in chiral molecules, supported by close collaboration with industrial partners to enable rapid translation into applications.

Requirements:

We seek an outstanding and highly motivated candidate holding a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics with an excellent academic record. The ideal applicant combines strong analytical ability with a genuine interest in theoretical physics and thrives in a collaborative, high-level research environment. Demonstrated expertise in theoretical approaches to laser-matter interaction and ultrashort laser pulses, along with advanced programming and numerical skills, will be considered a significant advantage.

Offer:

This full-time position (39 hours per week) is offered for a fixed term of three years, with a planned start date of December 1 2026 (or shortly thereafter). The position is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions and includes a remuneration package in accordance with European Commission guidelines. This comprises a monthly Living Allowance of €4,058.12 and a Mobility Allowance of €710. A Family Allowance of €660 per month is provided where applicable. The above amounts correspond to the gross employer salary and are subject to national taxes and deductions in Germany. Depending on individual circumstances, the resulting gross monthly salary is approximately €3,900 (without family allowance) to €4,450 (with family allowance). Additional support, including a Special Needs Allowance, may be granted in duly justified cases. The position includes standard social benefits, such as 30 days of paid annual leave (based on a five-day working week) and flexible working arrangements.

The MBI promotes an equity-based workplace and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. If equally qualified, applicants with a disability will be given preference (Schwerbehinderung nach Sozialgesetzbuch IX).

The MBI supports the reconcilability of family and working life and is certified by the audit workandfamily (audit berufundfamilie) as family-friendly. MBI is committed to a diverse, prejudice-aware working environment. The MBI follows the "Charta of Diversity" (Charta der Vielfalt) and implements the Diversity and Inclusion strategy as set up by the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V.

For further information about the project, please contact Dr. Felipe Morales Moreno (felipe.morales(at)mbi-berlin.de) or Prof. Dr. Olga Smirnova (olga.smirnova(at)mbi-berlin.de).