Open PhD position for High-field THz Sources and THz Science at the European XFEL, Hamburg, Germany(Deadline: 30.07.26)

In line with “Strategy 2030+”, European XFEL moves to broaden its scientific scope by providing intense THz and mid-IR radiation in combination with ultrashort X-ray pulses. Consequently, the Lasers Group (LAS) is working on the design and implementation of laser-based THz sources with parameters, defined by the users’ requirements.

The PhD project will be collaboratively hosted by LAS and the Femtosecond X-ray Experiments (FXE) instrument. We aim at developing novel high-field THz and mid-IR light sources, which greatly enhance our ability to address scientific cases in strong-field THz and X-ray science at FXE and other instruments. In particular, the THz-driven control of magnetic solids and the THz-induced molecular orientational ordering in liquids are envisaged as the testbed studies of the developed THz/mid-IR sources at FXE.

The tasks and responsibilities of the successful PhD candidate are as follows:

• Acquire extensive hands-on expertise with handling of ultrafast lasers, including characterization techniques as well as post-compression using Herriott multi-pass cells   
• Development, installation and characterization of laser-driven THz sources based on organic crystals and inorganic LiNbO3
• Mid-IR generation using intra-pulse difference frequency generation (DFG) of broadband non-collinear OPA pulses at 800 nm as well as post-compressed high-energy pulses from laser amplifiers at 1 µm
• Performing proof-of-concept characterization measurements experiments at a table-top level, benchmarking the developed THz and mid-IR sources in the R&D labs of LAS/FXE
• Implementation of selected THz and mid-IR light sources at the FXE instrument
• Conducting scientifically relevant experiments on liquids and magnetic materials using THz pump/X-ray probe measurements
• Publication of the obtained scientific results and their dissemination at national and international conferences and workshops      

• A MSc degree in physics, chemistry, optics & photonics, or a closely related subject is required
• Previous hands-on work experience with femtosecond lasers and related characterization techniques is an asset
• Previous knowledge in nonlinear optics and/or THz radiation generation/characterization is welcomed and considered a strong advantage
• Basic knowledge in ultrafast science phenomena and condensed matter physics
• Fluent English (good verbal and written communications skills) is required
• Strong communication skills, enthusiasm for collaborative and interdisciplinary research