Maria Eugenia Toimil Molares

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.

GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research in Darmstadt is advertising a three-year postdoctoral or engineering position in the Materials Science (MAT) Group for a candidate with expertise in materials science, mechanical engineering, physics , or a related field. The project focuses on the design, construction, and commissioning of a heavy-ion beam irradiation chamber for advanced radiation hardness and fusion materials research. The successful applicant will work in a multidisciplinary environment with accelerator, vacuum, and instrumentation experts to develop a state-of-the-art platform for controlled material irradiation studies. Key tasks include designing and assembling the chamber and subsystems, such as vacuum with load-lock sample handling, translation stages, active cooling/heating, and beam diagnostic components; performing pre-commissioning and testing; contributing to documentation, safety analyses, and operational procedures; and collaborating with the LINAC department and other technical groups at GSI. Eligibility highlights include a PhD or equivalent experience, strong hands-on experience with complex mechanical and vacuum systems, and the ability to work independently and in teams. Experience with UHV-compatible components, instrumentation for monitoring pressure/temperature/position, and project management for procurement and assembly is expected. The contract is limited until 31.01.2029 , with salary based on the public-sector TVöD agreement. GSI notes that women are especially encouraged to apply and that disabled applicants will be given preferential consideration when equally qualified. Application is via GSI's online portal, quoting Posting-ID 26.37-1600 , with a deadline of 10.04.2026 . The post also mentions additional openings, including PhD opportunities, in radiation hardness, electrodeposition, and nanochannel research .