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About the position

Post Doc (f/d/m) -
Coherent diffraction imaging at 2D layers

The Paul-Drude-Institut für Festkörperelektronik (PDI), a member of the Leibniz Association, has a long-standing expertise in synchrotron-based research on crystalline heterostructures.

As a frequent user of European radiation sources such as ESRF, PETRAIII and DLS we design and carry out dedicated experiments to get a better and better idea of the real structure of crystalline materials grown by PDI and external collaborators, but also to push the experimental possibilities to their limits. This is done through close collaboration between complementary core competencies at PDI. In this position you will apply new analytical approaches at fourth generation synchrotron sources taking full advantage of the exceptional coherence to study structural phenomena in ultrathin and weakly bonded two-dimensional layered materials. 

Your responsibilities

  • Design of synchrotron experiments for three-dimensional chemical and strain landscapes using coherent scattering techniques
  • Numerical implementation of defects in weakly-bound van der Waals heterostructures within Finite Element Method
  • Data analysis and planning of experiments
  • Presentation of results at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications

Your profile

  • PhD in experimental physics
  • Strong background in synchrotron-based coherent diffraction techniques
  • Expertise at least one of the following scientific fields:
    coherent diffraction imaging,strain in confined low-dimensional heterostructures, Finite Element Method
  • Good communication skills and the spirit to work in an interdisciplinary team

Position and salary

This position is available immediately and is limited to a 2-year period initially with excellent chance of becoming extended.

Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service (TVöD Bund) to a level of E13 (100%), taking work experience and special professional skills into account.

What we offer

  • Modern laboratories with a wide range of experimental techniques
  • Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields
  • International and culturally diverse community
  • Location in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport connections
  • a subsidized travel ticket
  • Possibility to participate in professional development and/or exchange programs 

About PDI

The Paul-Drude-Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. and a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science, condensed matter physics, and device engineering.

The Department of Microstructure focuses on the analysis of microstructures and the exploration of their structure-property-relationships. We use techniques such as x-ray and electron diffraction, transmission electron and scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy to analyze the structural, electronic and mechanical properties of a wide range of materials and quantum systems. Our powerful scanning transmission electron microscope is used for electron tomography to visualize and analyze the three-dimensional structure and chemical information of complex materials with sub-nanometer resolution. Our team is responsible for the operational use of the PHARAO beamline at the Berlin synchrotron BESSY II - a third generation synchrotron radiation source, unique in Germany, to observe in-situ growth during molecular beam epitaxy by means of diffraction experiments.

For scientific information about the project, please contact Dr. Michael Hanke (hanke@pdi-berlin.de).

Inclusive & equal opportunity employer

With approximately 100 employees and more than 15 nationalities, PDI is committed to building a talented, inclusive, and culturally diverse workforce. We understand that our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness and mutual respect.

As an equal opportunity and family-friendly employer, we offer highly flexible employment conditions, such as flexible working hours, parental leave, and home office, and we strive to create a family- and life-conscious working environment.

Among equally qualified applicants, preference will be given to candidates from marginalized groups. That means, we welcome every qualified application, regardless of sex and gender, origin, nationality, religion, belief, health and disabilities, age or sexual orientation.

PDI follow our gender equality plan, so we want to engage women* to apply at PDI to balance the gender ratio in science. Disabled applicants with equal qualification and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

How to apply

Please upload your application by March 16, 2025. 
Your documents must include

  • a dedicated cover letter
  • CV
  • diploma(s) and transcript(s)
  • publication list
  • letter(s) of recommendation/contact information of references