Limited: 2 years with the option of permanent employment | Start: 01.10.2026 | ID: MMA036/2026 | Deadline: 19.08.2026 | Full-time/Part-time | Remote work possible
DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists.
DESY expands its research on novel laser-plasma accelerators (LPAs) for future applications in health, photon science and particle physics. At the core of these activities is the development of a plasma-based injector for the synchrotron light source PETRA IV. In this context, we are searching for a highly-motivated scientist to lead and shape our activities in data-driven design, optimization and real-time control of high-average-power LPAs.
With the PETRA IV project, DESY is launching one of the most ambitious and innovative large-scale research projects worldwide. PETRA IV, the most brilliant synchrotron radiation source of the next generation, will be the ultimate 4D X-ray microscope, setting new standards in precision and performance. To implement the project, we are looking for motivated employees who want to get involved in a complex project with international appeal. More information about PETRA IV: PETRA IV
- Contribute to the development of the PETRA IV plasma injector
- Lead the development of state-of-the-art data analysis, control and fast feedback systems for LPAs operating at up to kHz repetition rates
- Develop and deploy novel diagnostics for laser-plasma accelerators and interface them with the control system
- Develop and deploy novel concepts for improving LPA beam quality and stability
- Coordinate and drive activities on the use of machine learning and differentiable computing for the operation of laser-plasma accelerators
Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. 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.
Limited: 2 years with the option of permanent employment
- Completed university studies in physics with a PhD or a comparable qualification
- Track record in experimental demonstration of concepts for improving the LPA beam quality and stability as well as for autonomous LPA operation
- Track record in the development of control and DAQ systems for LPAs, including event-based measurements at kHz-level repition rates
- Very good knowledge of machine-learning methods such as Bayesian optimization, Gaussian Processes and Neural Networks
- Proven experience in the design, construction and operation of laser-plasma accelerators
- Experience in laser-plasma based synchrotron injectors, active energy compression and LPA-driven undulator radiation is a bonus
- Experience with software such as Python, C++, Rust, CUDA, Ax, PyTorch and FBPIC
For further information please contact Andreas Maier at +49 40 8998-6687, [email protected]
Please submit your complete application documents (letter of motivation, CV and relevant certificates).
We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:
DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us and therefore we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position. Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified (sbv.desy.de).
You can find further information here:
https://www.desy.de/career/
Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Personalabteilung
Notkestraße 85
22607 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 8998-3392
Deadline for applications: 20.08.2026
