PhD Position in Quantum Materials Research and Optoelectronics

within the DFG funded Emmy-Noether program “Hybrid quantum opto-electronic devices based on excitons in van der Waals heterostructure”. The successful candidate will explore emergent excitonic and quantum phenomena in atomically thin heterostructures, bridging fundamental research and potential applications in quantum optoelectronics.

The position is offered for a period of 3 years. The starting date is as soon as possible. The position is part-time (75 % of regular working hours) with salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state Hesse, Germany (TV-H E 13, 75 %).

Stacking and twisting atomically-thin materials makes it possible to tailor their electronic, optical and magnetic properties in unprecedented ways. Building on these possibilities, this project explores engineered van der Waals heterostructures by designing and fabricating gate-tunable devices and investigating them with advanced spectroscopic techniques at cryogenic temperatures. The research aims to uncover how strong interactions between electrons, excitons, and spins give rise to exotic quantum states and to explore their potential for future quantum technologies. The position provides broad training in nanofabrication, optical spectroscopy, and quantum materials research, carried out within a small and dynamic team. The successful candidate will be closely involved in all stages of the research cycle.

The position is limited to a time period deemed adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree. As part of the assigned duties, there will be ample opportunity to conduct the independent scientific research necessary for the completion of a doctorate. The limitation complies to § 2, 1 WissZeitVG.

Tasks:

• nanofabrication of electricallly-gated van der Waals heterostructures
• design, setup, and operation of experimental instrumentation
• optical spectroscopy and transport experiments
• data analysis, modeling and scientific communication
• scientific services in research and teaching
• preparation of publications and contributions to conferences

Profile:

• MSc-degree or equivalent in physics or a related field
• strong motivation for experimental condensed matter and solid-state physics, with enthusiasm for both building instrumentation and using them to answer fundamental questions
• background in at least one of the following areas: condensed matter physics, solid-state physics or 2D materials
• experience with at least one of the following: nanofabrication, cryogenics, electrical transport or confocal microscopy

Disposition to own scientific qualification (e.g. a doctorate project in the area of experimental condensed matter physics) is expected.

We offer:

• a stimulating and collaborative research environment with state-of-the-art infrastructure
• close supervision and room for scientific independence
• a fully funded PhD position and complementary benefits (Landeticket Hessen, family service, career training)

We actively support the professional development of junior researchers by the offers of Marburg Research Academy (MARA), the International Office and the Higher Education Didactics Office.

Join us in advancing the frontiers of quantum materials and exploring the fundamental physics of interacting excitons and electrons!

Informal questions and expressions of interest are very much encouraged.

We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. As a certified family-friendly university, we support our employees in balancing family and career. A reduction of working time is possible. Applicants with a disability as discribed in SGB IX (§ 2 Abs. 2, 3) will be preferred in case of equal qualifications. Application and interview costs can not be refunded.

Please apply by November 16th, 2025 using the application-button below.