Scientist X-Ray Optics Optische Metrologie; f​/m​/d

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.

We are seeking a motivated researcher to work on a European‑wide optics and metrology project. You will play a central part in coordinating tasks with a systematic study of contamination of X‑ray optics, applying various cleanroom technologies to recover them to their original state.

• Close collaboration and multidisciplinary work at EuXFEL as well as at partner labs.
• Establish physical characterisation processes before and after treatment of optical surfaces, using surface science and optical metrology technologies, such as phase‑shifting micro‑interferometry, AFM, SEM, Photoelectron and Raman spectroscopy, and Spectroscopic Ellipsometry.
• Develop expertise in cleaning optics, removal of mirror coatings & refurbishments: determine the suitability of various methods to different types of contaminated coatings. Treatments may include wet chemical processing and corrosive acid etchants, oxygen/ozone exposure, plasma treatment, or polymer film application.
• Plan, coordinate and execute scientific experiments and measurements for each project task – either in‑house or at collaborator facilities in Europe.
• Present project reports at meetings and conferences, and contribute to peer‑reviewed publications.

• PhD degree in Physics, Materials Science, Semiconductor, or related fields.
• Strong background in surface physics and/or gas‑solid heterogeneous catalysis systems.
• Proven expertise in characterisation methods in material and surface physics/chemistry.
• Hands‑on experiences with experimental setup, chemical laboratory, vacuum technology and data analysis.
• Willingness to travel to partner institutes within Europe for knowledge exchange.
• Experiences with optical metrology (X‑ray optics) or fabrication laboratory is an asset.

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.

• 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.
• Extensive relocation benefits.
• Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of monthly salary).
• Monthly social events and subsidised company restaurant.
• Partially financed job‑tickets for public transportation.
• Extensive training opportunities incl. subsidised English and German language classes.
• Easy and free access to a mental‑health platform to support your wellbeing.

• Salary range: min. Pay‑Group 13/1: €4,901.70 – max. Pay‑Group 13/6: €7,025.87; the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, see current valid.
• Depending on the pay‑grade, we offer an annual special payment of 75‑95% of one month’s salary.

Our company language is English.

Working place will be Schenefeld, in the Hamburg metropolitan area.

For additional information, please contact Silja Schmidtchen.

This position is offered in the framework of the Horizon Europe project LEAPS‑TECH funded by the European Union under G.A. No.

General information on working in Germany, the Hamburg area and the European XFEL can be found on our website.