Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 101/2026
Closing date: 2026-05-03

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Institute of Solid State Physics seeks to fill the position of a

Scientific Employee for Experimental Nanophotonics

commencing on 01 July 2026
We offer a permanent full-time position (40 hours per week).

The position is associated with the Photonic Nanomaterials Research Group (), which investigates the fundamental optical properties and potential applications of resonant photonic nanostructures. We combine numerical optimization, nanofabrication, hybridization with functional materials, and optical characterization techniques aiming to control the emission, propagation, and absorption of light and all its properties at the nanoscale.
Together with this team, you ensure the scientific coordination of the nanofabrication facilities and significantly support coordinated projects of the group, such as in the IRTG 2675 "Tailored metasurfaces" () or in the SFB 1375 "Non-linear optics down to atomic scales" ().

Your responsibilities:

• Scientific coordination of the group’s nanofabrication facilities
• Supervision of Bachelor-, Master- and PhD-students
• Conduct experimental research in nanophotonics
• Support in research project acquisition
• Support in faculty teaching (8 SWS)
• Management of the lab courses of the study program “Quantum Science and Technology”
• Work on an own scientific qualification project - e.g. “Habilitation”

Your profile:

• Master's degree in Physics with excellent results (typically equivalent to a grade of 1.3 or better)
• An excellent doctoral degree in Physics
• Specialist knowledge in experimental nanophotonics
• Hands-on experience in electron-beam lithography, including multilayer alignment procedures
• Hands-on experience in the optical characterization of nanostructures, including at cryogenic temperatures and under low-light conditions
• Excellent skills in numerical electromagnetic modelling of photonic nanostructures
• Very good skills in English and good skills in German
• Ideally, you have already performed experimental research on two-dimensional semiconductors
• Previous research experience in non-linear optics and/or structured light generation is an advantage
• Familiarity with the German academic system is advantageous

We offer:

• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at / up to salary scale 13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• Autonomous work and the possibility to develop own research areas
• Involvement in national and international networks of universities, research institutes and industrial companies
• A comprehensive further and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development in the fields of Solid State Physics, Optics and Teaching (“LehreLernen”) or soft skills
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder)
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The position is permanent.

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week).

In principle, the job is also suitable for part-time employment. The extent to which a part-time request can be granted, in particular with regard to the location and scope of the part-time work, will be assessed on the basis of the needs of the service.

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 03.05.2026 using our online form.

For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to