PhD Positions in Precision Frequency-Comb Spectroscopy, Ultrafast Laser-Matter Interactions, and Ultrafast Chirality at Max Born Institute
The Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI) in Berlin, Germany is advertising multiple PhD openings in experimental and theoretical ultrafast science.
Open projects:
Precision Frequency-Comb Spectroscopy; Ultrafast Laser-Matter Interactions and Nanoprocessing; and Ultrafast Chirality for Life and Technology (EU MSCA Project TRILOGY).
Research themes:
nonlinear optics, ultrafast dynamics, dual-comb spectroscopy, laser physics, spectroscopy, laser-matter interactions, nanoprocessing, attosecond science, chiral light-matter interactions, optical instrumentation, and numerical/data analysis.
Project 1:
The frequency-comb PhD focuses on developing and applying dual-comb spectroscopy for broadband precision spectroscopy, including advanced laser-based instrumentation, optical experiments, state-of-the-art frequency-comb systems, and spectroscopic data analysis. Official supervision: Prof. Dr. Nathalie Picqué.
Project 2:
The nanoprocessing PhD is within the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre 1477 “Light-Matter Interactions at Interfaces” and studies ultrafast response of dielectric materials under intense laser fields, including ionization, plasma formation, nonlinear optical effects, and precision laser nanostructuring. Official supervision: Dr. Mark Mero, with affiliation to Freie Universität Berlin; contact: Dr. Alexandre Mermillod-Blondin.
Project 3:
The TRILOGY PhD is part of an EU Horizon Europe Doctoral Network and trains doctoral candidates in ultrafast chirality, combining theory and experiment with industrial collaboration. It includes a mobility rule and is funded by Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. Contacts: Dr. Felipe Morales Moreno and Prof. Dr. Olga Smirnova.
Eligibility highlights:
Physics or closely related backgrounds are required, with strong optics/laser/experimental skills for the spectroscopy and nanoprocessing projects. The TRILOGY project requires a Master’s degree in Physics, excellent academic record, strong analytical ability, and compliance with MSCA mobility and doctoral-status rules.
Funding:
The first two positions are paid under German TVöD Bund E13, 75% for 3 years. The TRILOGY position includes MSCA living, mobility, and family allowances, plus standard social benefits.
Deadlines:
19 July 2026 for Precision Frequency-Comb Spectroscopy; 31 August 2026 for Ultrafast Laser-Matter Interactions and Nanoprocessing; TRILOGY is open until filled with rolling evaluation.
How to apply:
Submit your application through the MBI career portal with cover letter, CV, certificates, and a description of previous professional activities.
