Research Associate for the Project “Optimized Processing and Training for Intelligent Experimentation (OPTIX)” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute for Experimental Physics

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: as soon as possible, fixed until 31.10.2028 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-03-13

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 75 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

We are opening a position at the Center for Free-Electron Laser (CFEL) Science in Hamburg. The project will focus on the implementation of machine-learning-based closed-loop experimentation at the XUV Free-Electron Laser FLASH at DESY in Hamburg in order to enable robust user operation for attosecond science with FELs. The analysis of electron-spectroscopy-based metrology of ultrashort pulses with attosecond resolution will be the basis for an automatized control of the machine optimization. Building a strong collaboration network between photon science, accelerator science and technology is key to this project, hence, project planning and communication will be a substantial part of the tasks. The position is part of the BMFTR project OPTIX, Optimized Processing and Training for Intelligent Experimentation.

This unique opportunity offers the candidate access to cutting-edge technology and a collaborative and diverse environment aimed at pushing the technological, methodological, and scientific frontiers of ultrafast science.

The tasks include:

• literature research
• data analysis of angular-streaking-based attosecond metrology via Python-based algorithms
• correlation of diagnostic data and machine operation of the FEL FLASH for closed-loop-optimization
• communication between computer sciences, photon science, and accelerator science
• conducting experiments, measurements and calculations
• preparation of publications
• participation in conferences
• participation in at least one local graduate school
• analysis and interpretation of scientific data

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

• a completed university degree (diploma/master's) in physics or a related field
• very good experience in the field of X-ray physics and accelerator science and technology, especially regarding free-electron lasers and/or synchrotrons
• very good experience with data analysis, ideally with Python as the programming language
• project management experience
• the candidate ideally has scientific publications as co-author or lead author
• strong organizational and teamwork skills to thrive in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment
• excellent communication in English is necessary; knowledge of German is a plus
• very good analytical skills
• the candidate must have a thorough and independent working style
• very good experience in preparing scientific papers

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Markus Ilchen

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

45

Application deadline

2026-03-13

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.