PhD position on Gas-phase Photodynamics of Molecules of Astrophysical interest, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain (Deadline: 27.05.2026)

The Chemical Reaction Dynamics and Femtochemistry group (http://dinalaser.com/) at Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) offers the opportunity to perform a PhD thesis within the collaborative MATRIX project (Matter in Action with Ultrafast Optical and X-ray Lasers) funded by the Madrid Region (Spain).

The main objective of the MATRIX consortium “Matter in Action with Optical and X-ray Lasers” is the development and implementation of advanced ultrafast, optical and X-ray laser methodologies and technologies, both in the 7 participating groups in the Community of Madrid and in large European and international facilities via close collaboration.

The PhD thesis project

We are looking for a university student who has recently finished his/her M.Sc. He/She will work on photoinduced dynamics in polyatomic molecules of astrophysical interest. Experiments will be carried out using pulsed nanosecond lasers and velocity map imaging at the Center for Ultrafast Lasers at UCM. An extreme ultraviolet (XUV) source based on four-wave mixing on a noble gas is currently under development and will be employed during the PhD to investigate the photodissociation and photoionization of molecules and radicals.

Candidate Profile

The successful candidate must hold a Master’s degree in Physics/Chemistry or similar. A strong background and motivation in light-matter interaction and photo-induced molecular dynamics is desired. Previous experience with pulsed lasers and programming skills would be highly valued, although not a pre-requisite.

Quick facts

Gross monthly salary: ~1,900 € (14 payments); ~26900 € per year

Enrolment in university PhD program: Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Contact

Candidates should send their applications, including an updated CV, a motivation letter as well as contact information of up to three references to:

Luis Bañares: lbanares@ucm.es and Sonia Marggi Poullain: smarggi@ucm.es