PostDoc; m​/f​/d

The Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science () is one of the most internationally renowned research institutes. More than 400 employees in 5 scientific departments conduct and facilitate top-level research on historic grounds in Berlin‑Dahlem, which is unique worldwide.

The Department of Physical Chemistry focuses on the dynamics of elementary processes in solids and at surfaces, in particular, ultrafast dynamics of electronic and lattice excitations, electron‑phonon coupling, interfacial charge transfer, spin dynamics, as well as spectro‑microscopy and light‑matter interaction at the nanoscale. Within the Department of Physical Chemistry, the Lattice Dynamics group is currently looking to hire a

This new project is a collaboration between our group and the Interface Science Department of the FHI, and combines the expertise in nonlinear infrared spectroscopy and electrochemistry, respectively, in order to control electrochemical reactions with strong, narrow‑band infrared excitation. We will employ the in‑house infrared free‑electron laser (FHI‑FEL) to selectively excite molecular species at electrochemical interfaces in operando, in order to steer reaction rates and selectivity.

To differentiate resonant excitation from non‑resonant heating effects, we will combine pulsed FEL excitation with electrochemical potential modulation.

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in physics, chemistry, materials science or related fields, with a strong background in experimental optics. A basic understanding of electrochemistry, as well as solid state physics and light‑matter interaction would be highly beneficial. Additionally, applicants should have experimental experience in one or more of these areas:

• Nonlinear spectroscopy
• Pump‑probe spectroscopy
• THz spectroscopy
• Optical microscopy

Moreover, candidates are expected to have

• Collaborative spirit and ability to work in an international research environment
• Affinity for performing complex experiments with ambitious goals, with a high drive to solve scientific and practical/instrumental challenges.

• Attractive work environment with top‑tier labs and scientific instrumentation and expertise in a highly collaborative and international setting
• Various training opportunities through the Planck Academy
• Excellent living conditions in the thriving city of Berlin
• Initial work contract (TVÖD E13) for 1 year, with possibilities for extension
• Starting date: as soon as possible

Your application should include:

• Motivation letter specific to the project
• CV
• Contact details of at least two academic references

The Max Planck Society endeavors to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the participation of women in research. Therefore, applications by women are particularly welcome. The Max Planck Society is also committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

For more information please contact:

Dr. Alex Paarmann, e-mail: a,

Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, Department of Physical Chemistry, 14195 Berlin