European XFEL GmbH
4 days ago
Postdoctoral Researcher for XFELO European XFEL GmbH in Germany
Degree Level
Postdoc
Field of study
Experimental Physics
Funding
Available
Deadline
Nov 3, 2026
Country
Germany
University
European XFEL GmbH

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About this position
European XFEL GmbH is offering a postdoctoral researcher position in XFELO (X-ray Free-Electron Laser Oscillator) within the X-Ray Optics area in Schenefeld, Germany. The role is centered on developing, optimizing, and operating the existing XFELO demonstrator setup, including hardware, beamline components, and experimental procedures. The successful candidate will also contribute to the conceptual design of a tunable XFELO device, supporting performance studies, technical trade-offs, and interface definitions.
This position is highly experimental and instrument-focused. Responsibilities include planning and executing XFELO-related experiments, carrying out internal measurements and collaborative experiments with internal and external user groups, analyzing experimental data, and contributing to publications, internal reports, and technical notes. The postholder will also help organize workshops and meetings related to XFELO science, technology, and future development.
The appointment is for up to 3 years. The work environment is described as international, multidisciplinary, and research-intensive, with English as the company language. European XFEL highlights flexible working arrangements, relocation support, training opportunities, and a family-friendly environment. The compensation is aligned with German public service pay scales, with a scientific allowance and additional benefits.
Eligibility is focused on candidates who already hold a PhD or equivalent in Physics, Accelerator/Photon Science, Engineering, or a closely related field. The post calls for demonstrated research output, practical experience in at least one of the relevant technical areas (such as FELs, optical cavities, X-ray optics, beam diagnostics, or beamline instrumentation), a strong grasp of X-ray optics and FEL/accelerator fundamentals, and strong scientific programming/data analysis skills. Excellent English communication skills are required.
The deadline is 3 November 2026, 23:59 Europe/Berlin. Applications must be submitted via the online portal and include a CV, a motivation letter in English, and reference letters.
Funding details
Available
What's required
PhD or equivalent in Physics, Accelerator/Photon Science, Engineering, or a closely related field, completed by the start date. Applicants should have demonstrated ability to conduct and publish high-quality research, with peer-reviewed publications or conference contributions preferred. Hands-on experience in at least one of the following is required: free-electron lasers, optical cavities/oscillators, X-ray optics, accelerator or beam diagnostics, beamline instrumentation, or experimental operation at a large-scale user facility. Candidates should have a solid understanding of X-ray optics and the fundamentals of FEL and accelerator physics relevant to XFELO operation, strong data analysis and scientific programming skills such as Python, with MATLAB and/or C/C++ as an advantage, and excellent written and spoken English plus the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary, international team.
How to apply
Apply through the online application portal provided in the posting. Submit a CV, a motivation letter in English, and any reference letters. Applications should be completed before 3 Nov 2026 at 23:59 Europe/Berlin.
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