At the Leibniz Institute of Photonics Technology (Leibniz IPHT) we are looking in the Research Department Photonics and Quantum Detection, Work Group Photonic Interfaces, for a part-time (50%) position for a

PhD candidate (m/f/d)

The position is to be filled as soon as possible and is initially limited to a period of 3 years. An extension will be sought if suitable.

The Leibniz-IPHT is a university independent research institute with close connection to the Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena and member of the Leibniz association.

Job description:

The work is being carried out as part of the DFG's Priority Program 2363 “Molecular Machine Learning".  The doctoral research is being conducted within the "Photonic Interfaces" group in close collaboration with the "Photonic Data Science" department. The project focuses on the automated production of photonic molecular layers at the air-water interface and their in-situ characterization. This approach aims to generate a substantial amount of independent data, which will be analyzed using machine learning methods.

The doctoral project involves automatically varying various process parameters. To this end, a microfluidic dosing system will be set up, and motorized barriers will be operated according to interfacial tensions. The corresponding devices must be set up and controlled via a common interface. The same applies to in situ characterization. In addition to measuring interfacial tension, Brewster angle microscopes, UV-vis absorption and emission spectrometers and other spectrometers will be used to detect large data sets automatically. This will provide a solid basis for developing and applying new machine learning (ML) methods. The ML methods will be developed in the "Photonic Data Science" department while the doctoral thesis in the "Photonic Interfaces" working group will focus on developing and automating the operation of the Langmuir-Blodgett roll-to-roll apparatus.

Your field of activity includes:

• Design and realization of an automated Langmuir-Blodgett roll-to-roll system, including an interface to control the dosing, transfer, and deposition of molecular films.
• Development of innovative, highly sensitive in situ microscopic and spectroscopic characterization
• Derivation of structure-property relationships

Your qualification:

• Master's degree in physics or engineering sciences

Desired knowledge and skills:

• Experience in setting up and controlling physical devices and optical setups
• Experience with Python and LabView
• Very good command of English (oral and written)

We offer:

• An open welcoming culture and an inclusive and interdisciplinary working environment: Located on the Beutenberg campus in Jena, Leibniz-IPHT is home to more than 400 employees from around the world working at the interface of physics, biochemistry, technology, data science and medicine to develop the photonic technologies of tomorrow.
• World-class equipment and facilities: Leibniz-IPHT has a large number of physics, chemistry and biology laboratories at the highest level. It also has state-of-the-art fiber drawing and clean room facilities as well as microfluidics fabrication and big data computing facilities.
• Thorough and comprehensive personal training: Transferring good practices in scientific working and outreach is one of our main focus points. In a respectful and appreciative environment, you will learn everything you need for a career inside and outside of science. Moreover, plenty of workshops and opportunities for scientific exchange are offered by the Leibniz IPHT, as well as the Abbe School of Photonics and the Graduate Academy of the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena.
• A family-friendly working environment with support offers for the compatibility of family and work (e.g. parent-child office, campus kindergarten places, advice on family care situations from trained care guides and much more).
• Flexible working time models as well as 30 days vacation/year, special annual payment and bridge days.
• Jena - City of Science: a young city with a vibrant local cultural agenda!

Salary:

Salary is in accordance with the regulations of the TV-L and your qualifications and experience.

About us:

We are a modern, internationally focused research institute. Work-life balance is one of our central concerns. We value diversity and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of gender, disability, nationality or ethnic and social origin. If women are underrepresented in the area of the advertised position, they will be given preferential consideration in the hiring process if they are equally qualified.

Further information:

If you have any questions, please contact PD Dr. habil. M. Presselt; Tel.: 03641 – 206 418, E-Mail: martin.presselt@leibniz-ipht.de.

Application:

Simply apply via our job portal (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/institute/career/job-portal/) or send your application with the usual documents (CV, certificates, reference addresses) until July 31, 2025 by e-mail, preferably as one pdf file, quoting reference number 1375 to the:

Leibniz-Institute of Photonic Technology Jena e. V.

Human Resources

Albert-Einstein-Straße 9, 07745 Jena

E-Mail: Personal_Abtl@leibniz-ipht.de

Reference Number: 1375