17.03.2025

PhD student/doctoral candidate in Physics (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 50-75%)

Faculty of Science, Institute of Applied Physics

Application deadline: 31.08.2025

The group “Physics of molecular and biological materials” at the University of Tübingen is searching for a

PhD student / doctoral candidate in Physics (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 50-75%)

The position is limited for three years.

Description of the project

The research group of Prof. Dr. Frank Schreiber at the University of Tübingen deals with the physics of molecular and biological materials using X-ray and neutron scattering. The main research areas are materials for photovoltaics, proteins in solutions and at the interfaces, and complex nano-structured materials. For more information, visit our web page.  Currently, there are several options for doctoral theses. Candidates interested in one of the following five areas are particularly encouraged to apply:

• Fabrication of perovskite films for photovoltaic applications. Lead-halide perovskites are prospective materials for photovoltaics because of their efficiency, tolerance to defects and scalability of production. In this project, we study the formation of the perovskite thin films using our own spin-coater. The candidate will use time-resolved X-ray scattering in grazing incidence (GISAXS/GIWAXS), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) and other characterization techniques in our laboratory and synchrotron sources to reveal the details of formation of perovskite structure from the precursors and optimize the fabrication process. We also seek to combine the electrical, structural, and optical measurements to study the performance of perovskite-based solar cells in operando.
• X-ray nano-diffraction studies of complex materials and nanodevices. The candidate will perform X-ray scattering experiments with nanofocused beams to study the structure of self-assembled superlattices of nanoparticles. Such superlattices are the key element for many prospective applications, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and electro-optical modulators.
• Time-resolved X-ray diffraction. In this project, we want to understand the lattice dynamics in perovskite systems. The candidate will employ fast time-resolved X-ray diffraction at synchrotron facilities to reveal the details of halide ion migration in lead-halide perovskties and study the dynamics of polarons.
• Dynamics of protein crystallization in bulk and at interfaces. In this project, we seek to understand the structure and dynamics of protein molecules in concentrated solutions and understand the formation and growth of protein crystals. The candidate will use optical microscopy, quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D), Small-Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS), X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS) and Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) techniques to study the dynamics of proteins in solutions and of their crystallization in bulk and at interfaces.
• Neural networks and machine learning strategies for the analysis of scattering data. Large amount of scattering data obtained in our group requires development of the advanced analysis techniques. In this project, the candidate will design and use machine learning (ML) tools to classify and analyze X-ray and neutron scattering data. This project also includes implementation of FAIR concepts (Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability and Reusability) into the experimental data bases and analysis pipeline.

Qualification and skills

Candidates should have good communication skills and motivation to familiarize themselves with new subject areas. Both working independently and working in a team, e.g. during the measurement campaigns, is particularly demanding. Knowledge of programming languages such as Python is an advantage. Practical lab skills and enjoying experimental work is also a plus. Involvement in teaching (supervising practicals or tutorials) is possible. Knowledge of German is not necessary but will be considered as an advantage.

Your tasks

• Preparation of the samples and devices using the laboratory equipment available in our group
• Preliminary characterization of the samples and devices using laboratory X-ray setups and other techniques
• Participation in X-ray scattering experiments at world leading large-scale X-ray facilities (e.g. PETRA III and EuXFEL in Hamburg, ESRF in Grenoble and others), analysis of the experimental data
• Presentation of the obtained scientific results on conferences and in publications

Requirements

• Master’s degree in physics or chemistry, or equivalent
• Interest in materials science
• Good written and spoken English
• Ability to work both independently and in a team
• Programming skills (Python) and lab working experience are strong advantages.

The University seeks to raise the number of women in research and teaching and therefore emphatically calls on qualified women to apply. Disabled candidates will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants. The university is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. It therefore takes individual situations into account and asks for relevant information. The employment will be handled by the central administration of the University of Tübingen.

Applications should be accompanied by a cover letter describing motivation, skills and any special achievements. Furthermore, a CV and a transcript of records should be added. The position is to be filled immediately. The deadline for the application is 31.08.2025. Please send your application in one PDF file to softmatterspam prevention@ifap.uni-tuebingen.de. Enquiries may also be sent to this address.