PhD and Postdoc Positions in Radiation-Hard Functional Materials, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry GSI Helmholtz Center for Heavy Ion Research in Germany

GSI Helmholtz Center for Heavy Ion Research in Darmstadt, Germany, is offering four new positions in its Materials Research Department, focusing on the development of radiation-hard functional materials. The department is led by Maria Eugenia Toimil Molares, who is also a Professor at the Technical University of Darmstadt. The research is closely linked to the international FAIR project, one of the world's largest research infrastructures for particle accelerators.

Openings include two postdoctoral researcher positions and two PhD candidate positions. The research areas span the intersection of materials science, physics, and chemistry, with a strong emphasis on radiation effects, fusion-relevant materials, advanced alloys, and nanostructures. Projects involve heavy ion irradiation experiments, synthesis of advanced alloys by electrodeposition, and investigation of radiation hardness in materials such as ODS steels and tungsten nanostructures.

PhD candidates will design and commission experimental setups for high-temperature irradiation, participate in irradiation and helium implantation campaigns, and conduct Monte Carlo simulations to correlate irradiation effects with fusion power plant conditions. Another PhD project focuses on the fabrication and characterization of high-entropy alloys using electrochemical deposition and the study of their radiation-hardness properties.

Postdoctoral researchers will join the DINERWA project, collaborating with German and European partners. Their tasks include investigating radiation effects in fusion materials, developing non-contact measurement setups (e.g., laser Doppler vibrometry), supporting users of GSI irradiation facilities, and coordinating irradiation campaigns. Another postdoc project centers on the synthesis and characterization of advanced alloys by electrodeposition and the study of their radiation hardness.

Applicants for PhD positions must have an above-average Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related fields. Postdoctoral applicants require a PhD in a relevant discipline. Preferred qualifications include experience with advanced characterization methods (SIMS/SNMS, XRD, SEM/EBSD, Nanoindentation), programming skills (Python or C++), and knowledge of simulation tools (ANSYS, COMSOL, FLUKA, GEANT4). Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in international, multidisciplinary teams are essential. English proficiency is required.

All positions are fully funded according to the German public sector collective agreement (TVöD Bund). PhD positions are funded at 65% for 36 months, while postdoctoral positions are full-time for 24 months. GSI encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. The application deadline is January 2, 2026.

To apply, submit your motivation letter, CV, list of publications and presentations, names and contact details of at least two referees, and your earliest possible start date via the GSI online application portal, quoting the relevant reference number. For more information, visit the provided links.