Theoretical Condensed Matter/ Plasma Physics - Student at CFEL, Hamburg

Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) at DESY Hamburg

PhD position in theoretical physics

The CFEL-DESY Theory Division at the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science at DESY invites applications for a PhD position in theoretical physics within the condensed matter/plasma physics project on the development of an ab-initio tool to describe x-ray induced transitionfrom solid to plasma state.

DESY is one of the world's leading research centers for accelerator physics, high energy physics and research with synchrotron and FEL radiation, with an international research environment. It is located in the cosmopolitan city of Hamburg in northern Germany. DESY hosts a soft X-ray FEL facility (FLASH). Preparations for a European X-ray FEL are underway. The Center for Free-Electron Laser Science is a novel joint enterprise by DESY, the Max Planck Society (MPG), and the University of Hamburg. CFEL is designed to significantly advance science with next generation light sources. The three partners join forces to explore structural changes of atoms, molecules, condensed, biological, or warm dense matter on femtosecond time scales. CFEL envisions uncovering the "dynamics of matter" by uniting expertise from the various disciplines and research institutions in a new interdisciplinary and synergistic effort. The CFEL Theory Division develops theoretical and computational tools to predict the behavior of matter exposed to intense electromagnetic radiation. For more details please see https://desy-theory.cfel.de/

The proposed project aims at tracing non-equilibrium evolution of electronic and atomic structure of solids under intense x-ray fields. The considered radiation doses should be high enough to transfer the solid into the unexplored regime between solid and plasma state, in which local order is still preserved. This transition will be treated rigorously, using a dedicated ab-initio approach. With the methodology developed warm-dense-matter formation can also be described. If this works successfully, a novel theoretical tool to bridge between solid and plasma state will be constructed: a milestone achievement in this research field.

Interested candidates with excellent grades holding a Master Degree or equivalent in theoretical physics are invited to apply. Good programming skills, proven experience in analytical calculations, good knowledge of English and a solid mathematical background are expected. Applications (in English) including: (i) curriculum vitae, (ii) list of publications, (iii) copies of academic certificates, (iv) two letters of reference should be sent per electronic mail to:

Prof. Dr. Beata Ziaja-Motyka

CFEL at DESY, Notkestrasse 85,

22607 Hamburg, Germany

E-mail: ziaja@mail.desy.de

The application deadline is 1 August 2016.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Salary and benefits are commensurate with public service organizations. DESY is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and invites applications from women. Expected position start is 1 November 2016.