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Faculty of Physics and Astronomy :
AG Spectroscopy of Condensed Matter
Molecular Beam Epitaxy
In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for two
PhD student (m/f/x)
The Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) section, within the Spectroscopy of Condensed Matter Group, is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our team. You will be a vital part of the PHOQUS project—a prestigious ERC Synergy initiative dedicated to experimentally demonstrating that Quantum Dots are the key to scalable photonic quantum computation. Our research sits at the intersection of fundamental solid-state physics, advanced material science, and the engineering of next-generation semiconductor devices.
You will take a lead role in the design, growth, and optimization of novel semiconductor nanostructures using molecular beam epitaxy.
Scope: part-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-05-27
Your tasks:
In this role, you will transition from a student to an expert in semiconductor quantum technology. Your tasks include:
- Design & Engineering: Designing complex semiconductor heterostructures tailored for quantum applications.
- Advanced Synthesis: Mastering the growth of high-quality heterostructures using state-of-the-art molecular beam epitaxy.
- Multimodal Characterization: Performing in-depth morphological, optical, and electronic measurements to analyze material properties.
- Innovation: Developing novel epitaxial methods to push the boundaries of thin-film quality and quantum dot performance.
- Infrastructure Support: Actively participating in lab-work, including the setup, calibration, and maintenance of ultrahigh-vacuum equipment to ensure peak operational performance.
Your profile:
- We are looking for a curious mind with a "hands-on" mentality who thrives in a high-stakes research environment.
- Education: A Master’s degree in Physics (ideally with a focus on Solid State Physics) or a related field is preferred. Technical Skills: While experience in epitaxy, vacuum handling, semiconductor processing, or optical/electronic characterization is a major plus, it is not strictly mandatory. We value the ability and willingness to learn complex systems. The master's degree certificate must be available at the start of employment
- Mindset: You are highly self-motivated, organized, and possess excellent communication skills.
- Commitment: You enjoy the practical aspects of experimental physics, including building and maintaining sophisticated laboratory setups.
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Employment at one of the largest universities in Germany within the University Alliance Ruhr, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team
- World-class Research Environment: Work on a high-profile ERC Synergy project alongside leading global research groups.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to world-class MBE and characterization labs within one of Germany's largest academic hubs (University Alliance Ruhr).
- Vibrant Location: A position in the heart of the Ruhr metropolitan region—a hub of culture, diversity, and innovation.
- Are you ready to help build the future of quantum computing?
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Dr. Arne Ludwig Tel.: +49 234 32 25864
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-05-27. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5702.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
SOCIAL MEDIA