The Leibniz Institute of Photonics Technology (Leibniz IPHT) offers the following position in the Research Department Nanooptics for a part-time (65%) position, starting October 1st 2025:

PhD candidate (f/m/d)

The position is initially limited to 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 PhD candidate is expected to join us to work on the research project “Light-driven microdrones”, which is based on the collaboration between Dr. Xiaofei Wu at Leibniz-IPHT and Prof. Bert Hecht at University of Würzburg. Light-driven microdrones are micrometer-sized robots actuated by multiple independent optical nanomotors, which generate thrusts upon light illumination. Up to date, we have developed microdrones working in a plane with full and independent controls in all 3 degrees of freedom of 2D motions, which is a breakthrough for light-driven robotic devices (see https://communities.springernature.com/posts/light-driven-microdrones-a-new-level-of-optical-manipulation).

We are now aiming to extend the operation space of the microdrones to 3D. The two PhD candidates at Leibniz-IPHT and University of Würzburg will work together to achieve this goal by fulfilling a few challenging tasks. Once the whole microdrone system is established, we will perform experiments to showcase the great potential of the microdrones for future applications. The current idea is to do tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) of cells or similar specimens.

Your field of activity includes:

• Use numerical simulations (FDTD, COMSOL, deep learning) to design efficient nanomotors of the microdrones for 3D control
• Develop microfluidic chips as experimental platform of the microdrones. Fabricate the microfluidic chips using photolithography and 3D nano/microprinting (e.g. Nanoscribe).
• Contribute to fabrications of the microdrones using FIB, EBL, transfer, etc.
• Conduct the experiments of TERS on biological specimens

Qualification:

• Master’s degree or equivalent in physics or related fields (such as biophotonics, nanotechnology).

Desired skills and abilities

• Enthusiasm in research of frontier science and technology
• Strong problem-solving drive and ambition for excellence
• Solid knowledge in electromagnetics and optics
• Experience in optical experiments
• Experience in programming (Python, Matlab, etc.) is a plus
• Experience in micro/nanofabrication is a plus
• Good communication skills in English (spoken and written)
• Independence, responsibility and team player

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 (including lithography 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 Dr. Xiaofei Wu; email: xiaofei.wu@leibniz-ipht.de.

Application:

Please simply apply via our job portal (https://www.leibniz-ipht.de/en/institute/career/job-portal/) or send your application electronically as one pdf file until September 21, 2025 via email (including CV, certificates, reference addresses, other) to:

Leibniz-Institute of Photonic Technology Jena e. V.

Human Resources

Albert-Einstein-Straße 9, 07745 Jena

E-Mail: Personal_Abtl@leibniz-ipht.de

Code: 1393