Hamburg PhD Student strategies GHz speckle experiments; 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.

X‑ray Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (XPCS) enables the study of nanoscale and atomic‑scale dynamics by analyzing fluctuations in coherent X‑ray scattering. The multi‑MHz repetition rate of the European XFEL has already made XPCS highly successful for a wide range of applications in soft and biological matter. Now, we want to further develop this technique to explore the GHz regime, which has been enabled by recent technical advances at the European XFEL.

However, no detector currently exists that can resolve pulses at a GHz repetition‑rate. To address this challenge, the Data Analysis group and the MID scientific instrument are looking for a PhD student to develop methods and data analysis strategies for GHz speckle techniques and establish it as a viable experimental technique.

In particular, you will:

• Develop methods and data analysis workflows to enable GHz speckle experiments.
• Explore the application of X‑ray Speckle Visibility Spectroscopy (XSVS) to data analysis.
• Simulate GHz speckle experiments to assess and improve developed methods, as well as to optimize experimental parameters.
• Participate in relevant experimental activities.

• Masters degree in physics (grade of “good” or better).
• Experience in scientific programming (e.g., Python, Julia).
• Interest in experimental physics.
• Good command of English (that will be the working language).

• Experience with handling and managing large datasets is highly advantageous.
• Familiarity with techniques used in photon science, such as XPCS.
• Experience developing simulations.
• Experience with experiments at light sources, such as participating in synchrotron or XFEL experiments.

For additional information, please contact Dr. Luca Gelisio.

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 on our website.

Become part of a vibrant international and multi‑cultural 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.

• A family‑friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days).
• Flexible working hours and options to work from home (depending on your role and tasks).
• 30 days of paid vacation, plus December 24th and 31st off (granted by the employer).

• Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany.
• Salary: min. 13/1 with 4,901.11 € – max 13/2 with 5,279.32 € (values for full time will be adjusted according to the part‑time model); the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, here is the link to the current valid.
• Depending on the pay group, we offer an annual special payment of 75-95% of one month’s salary.
• Partially funded public transportation Deutschlandticket.
• Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of your monthly salary).

• Extensive relocation benefits to help you settle in smoothly.
• English as company language, enabling easy collaboration in our international environment.

• Extensive training opportunities, including subsidized English and German language courses.
• Subsidized sports membership with access to over 7,000 sport clubs.
• Monthly social events and company restaurant with employee discounts.
• Free access to a professional mental health support platform.