Leibniz Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ), Berlin

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung (IKZ) is a leading research institution in the area of science & technology as well as service & transfer of crystalline materials. Our goal is to enable solutions for urgent societal challenges (e.g. communication, artificial intelligence, climate protection, health etc.) by modern electronic & photonic technologies. The work covers the full spectrum from basic over applied research up to pre-industrial development and is performed in collaboration with national and international partners from university, academy and industry. The institute is part of Forschungsverbund Berlin (https://www.fv-berlin.de/) and the Leibniz Association https://www.leibniz-gemeinschaft.de. You can find more details on the institute webpage: https://www.ikz-berlin.de.

We are offering one

for the Project "Hybrid-plasmonic platform with tuneable light-matter coupling in a 2D parameter space”.

Tuning light-matter coupling in 2D-semiconductor/conjugated organic molecule systems is highly sought for due to its potential in controlling matter properties. Hybrid light-matter states – so-called polaritons – can arise when the two materials are placed in the spatially confined electromagnetic field of a plasmonic nanostructure. The project aims at developing an open plasmonic platform, where the light-matter interaction is dynamically tuneable in a two-dimensional parameter space. You will exploit the platform to demonstrate its potential in controlling charge and long-range excitonic energy transport as well as in investigating non-Hermitian systems.

The planned works are embedded in a DFG research project. The project start is 01.01.2027.

This is a joint project with PD Dr. Sylke Blumstengel, Department of Physics, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HUB). For the position at HUB, please follow this link: https://www.hu-berlin.de/en/university/working-at-the-hu/jobs

The key responsibilities include:

• Growth of 2D-semiconductors, sample fabrication in collaboration with the HUB via layer transfer and lithographic methods.
• Design of plasmonic platforms by performing numerical finite element simulations.
• Application of a set of spectroscopic methods (angular-resolved spectroscopic ellipsometry, Fourier microscopy, spatial-spectral imaging of the luminescence, time-resolved luminescence) to obtain polariton dispersion, assess tuneability of light-matter coupling strength via electrostatic gating, demonstrate the potential to control matter properties.
• Data analysis and simulation via use of classical and quantum mechanical models.
• Presentation of research results in international journals and conferences.

What we expect from you

• MSc degree in Physics or Optical Sciences.
• A solid background in condensed matter physics manifested by an excellent academic record.
• Experience with data analysis and familiarity with software tools for data acquisition and processing.
• Good team spirit, strong communication and collaboration skills.
• A high level of motivation, independence, creativity, and commitment to research.
• English language skills.

What would be desirable

• Knowledge of 2D-materials (e.g. WS₂, MoS₂)
• Practical experience in optical spectroscopy

What we offer

The position is limited to three years. Payment is according to TVöD Bund (E13 75%) (Collective agreement for the public sector). The contract includes the usual social benefits (30 vacation days in a 5-day week, flexible working hours). The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively promotes the development of young scientists and follows the guidelines of the Leibniz Association.

The Leibniz-Institut für Kristallzüchtung actively supports a healthy work-life balance and is an equal opportunities employer. Female candidates are encouraged to apply and will be given preference if suitably qualified. Among equally qualified candidates, preference will be given to candidates with disabilities. IKZ promotes diversity. We welcome every qualified application, regardless of age, belief, disabilities, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, religion, or sexual orientation.

For information about the project please contact:

Dr. Jens Martin, phone: +49 (0)30 246499 301, jens.martin(at)ikz-berlin.de

Have we sparked your interest?

Then apply with a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae and all relevant certificates by 30.09.2026. To do so, please go to Job offers/jobs on our homepage https://www.ikz-berlin.de/en/career/vacancies, click on this advertisement and then on "Apply online".

We look forward to receiving your application!