PhD Student; f​/m​/d event- XPCS

Organisation/Company European XFEL Research Field Physics Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Final date to receive applications 6 Apr 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Country Germany Type of Contract Other Type of Contract Extra Information This appointment is limited to 3 years. Job Status Part-time Job Status Extra Information This appointment is limited to 3 years. Hours Per Week 29.25 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Other EU programme Reference Number S-623 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? Yes

European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany. It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide range of experimental techniques.

For our MID group, we are looking for a

PhD Student (f/m/d) for event-based XPCS–
29.25 hours/week

The Position

X-ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS) enables the study of nanoscale and atomic-scale dynamics by analyzing fluctuations in coherent X-ray scattering. The uniquely high MHz repetition rate of the European XFEL has already made XPCS highly successful for a wide range of applications in soft and biological matter; this project aims to explore a novel detection concept that promises to extend the technique toward true atomic length scales.

As a PhD student for this project, your tasks would include:

• Writing of PhD thesis "MHz Dynamics at molecular length scales using a new detector system" at the MID instrument of the European XFEL
• Explore event-based detection to push XPCS toward atomic resolution
• Design, refine, and execute experimental strategies at the MID instrument for event-based XPCS
• Implement and advance correlation analysis methods for XPCS data, analyze existing datasets and extract results using advanced data analysis workflows
• Work at the interface of instrumentation development, cutting-edge experiments, and high‑performance data science
• Collaborate closely with experts in XPCS, FEL physics, and data science at DESY and the European XFEL

Requirements

• Master’s degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, or a related field
• Strong interest in X-ray scattering, materials science, and/or experimental methods at large-scale research facilities
• Experience in scientific programming (e.g. Python), data analysis and handling/managing large datasets are highly advantageous
• Familiarity with photon detection concepts or time-resolved experiments is beneficial
• Strong communication skills, enthusiasm for collaborative, interdisciplinary research
• Ability to work closely with instrument scientists, data experts, and external partners

Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area. General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found underwww.xfel.eu/careers.

Our offer

Become part of a vibrant international and multicultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.

Salary and benefits are similar to those of public service organizations in Germany, this includes for example:

• family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
• flexible working times and option for work from home depending on tasks
• 30 days of vacation, 24th and 31st of December are free as a courtesy of the employer
• generous company pension scheme (6,45% of monthly salary)
• monthly social events and subsidized company restaurant
• partially financed job-tickets for public transportation
• extensive training opportunities incl. subsidized English and German language classes
• easy and free access to a mental health platform to support your well‑being

Our company language is English.

Reference number: S-623

Duration: This appointment is limited to 3 years.

Application

Please apply online and provide your CV and a motivation letter in English as well as any reference letters.

The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.