PhD in Open System Control of Atomic and Photonic Matter (OSCAR) at RPTU University Kaiserslautern-Landau RPTU University Kaiserslautern-Landau in Germany

The Integrated College for the Advancement of Postgraduate Education (OSCAR) is part of the SFB/Transregio 185 (Bonn-Kaiserslautern) “Open System Control of Atomic and Photonic Matter” and is hosted at RPTU University Kaiserslautern-Landau. This PhD programme is designed to foster international first-class research and to educate qualified experts in the coupling of atomic and photonic systems to reservoirs. The college is embedded in a robust research infrastructure, offering doctoral candidates a unique environment for both academic and professional development.

OSCAR emphasizes the synergy between research and postgraduate education, implementing a "Problem-Based Learning" approach that integrates hands-on research experience with academic studies. Doctoral students benefit from tailored training opportunities, guidance, and a vibrant networking environment, ensuring optimal progress toward graduation within four years. The programme offers a variety of educational events, including international schools, workshops, seminars, soft skill courses, lecture series, exchanges, excursions, and personal career development guidance. These events are customized to individual needs, encouraging active participation and collaboration among students, supervisors, and college management.

PhD candidates are closely affiliated with the research projects of the transregio and have access to lectures offered by the Physics Department within the Master of Science in Advanced Quantum Physics programme. The detailed lecture schedule is available online. International guest lecturers and DFG funding further enhance the academic experience. The programme is conducted entirely in English, making it accessible to international students. No tuition fees are charged, but a social fee of 314 EUR per semester covers public transport, university sports, printouts, and canteen reductions. An assessment fee is required for verification of foreign certificates.

Funding opportunities are available through tax-free fellowships or employment contracts at RPTU. Additional support is provided for international students, including pre-arrival communication, orientation courses, accommodation assistance, and ongoing guidance throughout their stay. Student assistant jobs and research project positions are available on a competitive basis, and the university offers extensive career advisory services, networking events, and interdisciplinary workshops.

Accommodation is arranged in residence halls or private housing, with modern facilities and internet access. The "Studierendenwerk" operates several large halls of residence, and international students are supported in securing housing. Living costs are approximately 850 EUR per month in Kaiserslautern. The university provides a comprehensive support system, including welcome events, buddy programmes, specialist counselling, cultural and linguistic preparation, visa assistance, and registration support.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree or German Diploma in a relevant field. There are no formal language requirements, but proficiency in English is necessary as all discussions and teaching are conducted in English. Applications can be submitted at any time, and further information is available on the programme website or by contacting the supervisor directly.

For more details and to apply, visit the official programme page or contact PD Dr Axel Pelster at [email protected].