PhD Positions in Optical Excitations and Quantum Transport in Polymer Materials – Technical University of Munich Technical University of Munich in Germany

The research group of Prof. Frank Ortmann at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is offering two PhD positions (Research Associates, f/m/d) starting in Summer 2026, with a flexible commencement date. The projects focus on advanced theoretical and computational approaches to electronic, optical, and transport properties of complex materials, specifically targeting optical excitations and excitonic effects using Wannier-based methods, as well as quantum transport in polymer materials with electron–phonon coupling.

Project (a) aims to enhance the linear-scaling Wannier optics approach, enabling predictive simulations of optical excitations in large and structurally complex systems. Emphasis is placed on the theoretical description of excitonic phenomena, quantum dynamics, and many-body effects in realistic materials. Project (b) investigates quantum transport in polymer materials, focusing on electron-phonon coupling within an efficient transport framework.

The Ortmann group is part of the Cluster of Excellence e-conversion and is closely connected to the Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST), providing an interdisciplinary environment that links condensed-matter physics, quantum theory, and materials science. TUM is ranked among the top universities in Europe and offers an outstanding research environment, including membership in the TUM Graduate School and access to an active international scientific network.

Successful candidates will engage in theoretical formulation, numerical implementation, and validation of linear-scaling electronic-structure and optical-response methods. Activities include advancing efficient algorithms, benchmarking against established approaches, and applying methods to representative material systems. The positions are suitable for highly motivated individuals who can work independently and collaboratively within an international research team.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, or a closely related field at the start of the PhD. A background in theoretical solid-state physics or theoretical chemistry is required, with interest in electronic-structure theory and method development. Experience in computer simulations and programming is advantageous. Very good communication and writing skills in English are expected. TUM encourages applications from women and disabled persons; disabled applicants will be given preference if equally qualified.

The positions are offered as three-year contracts as Research Associates, with payment based on the Public Sector Collective Agreement of the Länder (TV-L E13 scale). Application documents (CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and degree certificates) should be submitted as a single PDF file to [email protected]. Up to two reference letters may be sent separately and confidentially by referees to the same email address, clearly indicating the applicant’s name and the position applied for. Applicants should specify their preferred topic and use the subject line “Application PhD2026-2a” or “Application PhD2026-2b”. The application deadline is 21 April 2026.

For further details and application instructions, visit the group’s job page or the application portal. Please review the privacy policy regarding personal data processing during the application process at TUM’s data protection page. Learn more about TUM at www.tum.de.