European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.
We are seeking a motivated researcher to work on a European-wide optics and metrology project. You will play a central part in coordinating tasks with a systematic study of contamination of X-ray optics, applying various cleanroom technologies to recover them to their original state.
For our X-Ray Optics group we are looking for an
The Position
- Close collaboration and multidisciplinary work at EuXFEL as well as at the partner labs.
- Establish physical characterisation processes before and after treatment of optical surfaces, using surface science and optical metrology technologies, such as phase-shifting micro-interferometry, AFM, SEM, Photoelectron and Raman spectroscopy, and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry
- Develop expertise in cleaning optics, removal of mirror coatings & refurbishments: determine the suitability of various methods to different types of contaminated coatings. Treatments may include: wet chemical processing and corrosive acid etchants, oxygen/ozone exposure, plasma treatment, or polymer film application.
- Plan, coordinate and execute scientific experiments and measurements for each project task - either in-house or at collaborator facilities in Europe
- Present project reports at meetings and conferences, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications
Requirements
- PhD degree in Physics, Material science, or Semiconductor, or related fields
- Strong background in surface physics and/or gas-solid heterogeneous catalysis systems.
- Proven Expertise in characterisation methods in material and surface physics/chemistry
- Hands-on experiences with experimental setup, chemical laboratory, vacuum technology and data analysis
- Willingness to travel to partner institutes within Europe for knowledge exchange
- Experiences with optical metrology (X-ray optics) or fabrication laboratory, is an asset
This position is offered in the framework of the Horizon Europe project LEAPS-TECH funded by the European Union under G.A. No. 101262866.
For additional information, please contact Silja Schmidtchen (
[email protected]).
Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found on our
Career Page.
Duration
This appointment is limited to 4 years.
Our offer
Become part of a vibrant international and multi-cultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.
Work-life balance & flexibility
- A family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
- Flexible working hours and options to work from home (depending on your role and tasks)
- 30 days of paid vacation, plus December 24th and 31st off (granted by the employer)
Compensation & long-term security
- Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany
- Salary range: min. 13/1 with 4,901.70€ - max. 13/6 with €7025,87, the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, here is the link to the current valid tariff table
- In addition, a scientific allowance is granted
- Depending on the pay group, we offer an annual special payment of 75-95% of one month’s salary. For paygroup 13, this amounts to 75%
- Partially funded public transportation Deutschlandticket
- Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of your monthly salary)
Support from day one
- Extensive relocation benefits to help you settle in smoothly
- English as company language, enabling easy collaboration in our international environment
Learning, wellbeing & community
- Extensive training opportunities, including subsidized English and German language courses
- Subsidized sports membership with access to over 7,000 sport clubs
- Monthly social events and company restaurant with employee discounts
- Free access to a professional mental health support platform
Application
Please provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.
The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.
Deadline for application: 14/08/2026
