Doctoral research position field of mechanoluminescent materials

Job advertisement

Vacancy /2026

Closing date:

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Libert y, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments.

With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

commencing on January 1st, 2027, offered as fixed-term position for an initial period of 36 months according to TV-L E13 (75%).

Mechanoluminescence (ML) is the fascinating phenomenon where a material emits light in response to mechanical stimuli, such as scratching, compression, or impact. By translating mechanical stress directly into a visible, infrared, or ultraviolet optical response, ML opens up a plethora of groundbreaking applications. These range from real-time damage monitoring in advanced structural materials to biophysical stress analysis and the visualization of acoustic waves.

Despite its immense potential, the field of mechanoluminescence is still in its infancy. There is a critical gap both in the versatility of practical material solutions and in our fundamental understanding of the underlying physical and chemical mechanisms. This Ph.D. project aims to tackle these challenges, investigating how next-generation inorganic mechanoluminescent materials must be designed and synthesized to meet the stringent demands of future applications.

• Design and synthesis of novel inorganic mechanoluminescent materials (e.g., solid-state synthesis, sol-gel processes, or melt-based routes).
• Structural and optical characterization using advanced techniques (e.g., XRD, SEM, photoluminescence, and decay spectroscopy).
• Mechanoluminescent testing utilizing custom-built setups to evaluate material responses under various mechanical loads (compression, friction, impact).
• Fundamental investigation of the charge-trapping and detrapping mechanisms that govern stress-induced light emission.
• Collaboration with internal and external partners to explore application-oriented device integration.
• Publication of research results in high-impact scientific journals and presentation at international conferences.

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong background or keen interest in solid-state chemistry, luminescence, or smart materials.
• Hands-on experience with material synthesis and standard characterization techniques is highly desirable.
• High level of motivation, curiosity, and the ability to work both independently and as part of an international team.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken); knowledge of German is an asset but not mandatory.

• A cutting-edge research project at the forefront of materials science.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and characterization tools.
• Comprehensive mentoring and integration into a structured doctoral training program.
• A vibrant, international, and interdisciplinary research environment.
• Flexible working hours (flexitime and, if applicable, teleworking)
• A comprehensive further and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development measures
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective…