Laser development scientist fusion project

Overview

Organisation/Company:
Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY

Research Field:
Physics

Researcher Profile:
Recognised Researcher (R2);
Established Researcher (R3)

Final date to receive applications: 25 Feb 2026 - 23:00 (UTC)

Country:
Germany

Type of

Contract:

To be defined

Job Status:
Other

Offer Starting Date: 22 Jan 2026

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Area of research: Scientific / postdoctoral posts

DESY is launching a national laser development project for laser fusion, dedicated to breaking new ground in laser science and technology. Its goal is to develop the next generation of cryogenic high-power Yb-laser systems and advanced diagnostics – technologies that will pave the way for fusion energy as a clean and virtually limitless power source. At DESY, one of Europe’s leading research centers, you will join a world-class team of scientists and engineers who are not only advancing the frontiers of laser physics, but also shaping a technology with the potential to transform global energy.

Working within this project means being at the cutting edge of science and innovation, contributing to a project of international significance, and collaborating with some of the brightest minds in the field.

About your role:

• Drive research on cryogenic high-power laser amplifiers and advanced system design
• Develop and operate record-breaking laser systems for fusion applications
• Publish experimental results and present at international conferences
• Mentor young scientists and engineers in a dynamic team
• Contribute to international collaborations and funding initiatives

About you:

• PhD in physics, laser technology, photonics, or related field
• Strong track record in experimental high-power laser physics
• Experience with cryogenic lasers, Yb:
  
  YAG/YLF, OPCPA, or related architectures
• Knowledge of simulation/design software (Python, Comsol, CAD)
• Drive to innovate and communicate in an international environment
• Proficient communication skills in English
• A driving role in a high-profile flagship project
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and global collaborations
• Space to develop your scientific profile and leadership skills
• Create the next generation of high-power lasers for fusion energy
• Drive the science. Build the lasers. Power the future.

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. To support work life balance we offer flexible working hours and variable part-time. You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision.

As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal. Apply now. DESY promotes the professional development of women and therefore strongly encourages women to apply for the position to be filled. In addition, severely handicapped persons with equal aptitude are given preferential consideration. The advertised positions are basically suitable for part-time employment.

You can find further information here:

Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Personalabteilung | Notkestraße 85 | 22607 Hamburg
Phone:

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.