Postdoc position (f/m/d) – Thermaltransport in thin films, heterostructuresand devices (full-time)

About the position

PDI is currently looking to strengthen its expertise in investigating the thermal properties of epitaxial thin films, 2D materials, heterostructures, and devices.

Materials of interest include wide- and ultra-wide-bandgap materials for power electronics (Al N, BN, diamond, r-Ge O₂, Ga₂O₃), 2D materials (h BN, graphene, TMDCs), transition metal nitrides (Sc N, Cr N, etc.), novel magnetic materials (Fe₃Ge Te₂, Ni Co₂O₄, Mn₅Si₃), arsenide-based short-period superlattices and complex heterostructures for THz quantum cascade lasers and detectors.

We are looking to hire a postdoctoral researcher to advance and further develop this research field, both theoretically and experimentally, and to extend our capabilities in thermal spectroscopy techniques.

These may include the implementation of beam-offset time-domain thermoreflectance and time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect spectroscopy.

The experimental work shall be complemented by simulations of thermal transport properties using ab-initio and finite-element modelling of heat dissipation in thin films, heterostructures, and across interfaces.

• Your responsibilities
• Conducting and leading innovative and forefront research in materials science focused on thermal transport properties.
• Performing and improving measurements based on thermoreflectance techniques.
• Simulation and modeling of heat transfer in heterostructures and across interfaces.
• Publication in renowned journals and dissemination at international conferences.
• Acquisition of competitive funding with the target to establish a self-sustained third-party funded research group.
• Contribute measurements to collaborations with internal and external partners.
• Communication with collaborating research groups.
• Supporting and supervising Master and Ph D students in their lab work and data analysis tasks.

Your profile

• Ph D in solid state physics or related fields.
• Proven expertise in thermal transport measurements and theory.
• Proficiency in optical pump-probe spectroscopy for thermal characterization, in particular, TDTR, FDTR, and TR-MOKE.
• Versatility in setting up complex experiments from scratch.
• Experience in handling cryogen-based measurement systems.
• Experience in high-frequency modulation and lock-in-based measurement techniques.
• Experience in complex data analysis, modeling, and simulations of thermal transport on the micro- and nanoscale.
• Motivated team player with a high level of communication skills.
• Position and salary

This position is available from October 1, 2026, and is limited to 2 years.

Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service (TVöD Bund) to a level of E13 (100%), taking work experience and special professional skills into account.

What we offer

• Job security and a good work-life balance
• Modern office located in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport connections and a subsidized travel ticket
• Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields
• International and culturally diverse community
• Mobile work
• Possibility to participate in professional development and/or exchange programs
• About PDI

The Paul Drude Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.

V. and a member of the Leibniz Association.

We are a globally recognized research institution specializing in the development of novel functional materials through molecular beam epitaxy.

The institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science, condensed matter physics, and device engineering.

Inclusive & equal opportunity employer

With approximately 100 employees and more than 15 nationalities, PDI is committed to building a talented, inclusive, and culturally diverse workforce.

We understand that our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness and mutual respect.

As an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, we offer highly flexible employment conditions, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and home office, and we strive to create a family- and life-conscious working environment.

Among equally qualified applicants, preference will be given to candidates from marginalized groups.

That means, we welcome every qualified application, regardless of sex and gender, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and disabilities, age or sexual orientation.

PDI follows our gender equality plan, so we want to engage women to apply at PDI to balance the gender ratio in science.

Disabled applicants with equal qualification and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

How to apply

Please upload your application as a single PDF by July 24, 2026 with the title of the position in the subject line. The document should include:

• Dedicated cover letter.
• CV- Transcript of Diplomas- Letter(s) of recommendation/contact information of references (if existing).
• Publication list (if existing).

For more information about the project, please contact PD Dr. Markus R. Wagner (wagner@pdi-berlin. de).

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