About us

In the Department of Mathemathics and Natural Sciences in the Group Theoretical Physics at the Technische Universität Ilmenau (Germany) is a vacancy for a

Academic staff member - doctoral student for theory of ternary metal nitrides (f/m/d)

to promote their own academic qualifications within the meaning of § 2 (1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz) from 01.01.2026.

The position is part of the German Research Foundation (DFG) priority program Nitrides4Future, subproject "Ternary metal nitrides – exploring fundamental optical and electronic properties towards ferroelectric functional structure".

Your tasks

Your job tasks includes the following responsibilities:

• Structural optimization and calculation of optical spectra of novel ternary metal nitrides using density functional theory and machine-learning methods developed at the group
• Application of the results for the analysis and interpretation of experimental optical spectra provided by project partners

Your profile

For being part of the selection process is needed:

• University degree (Master of Science or comparable) in physics, chemistry or materials science with profound knowledge in solid-state physics, quantum mechanics or quantum chemistry.

Following competences are desirable:

• Sound knowledge of the programming language python and in optical spectroscopy
• Good written and spoken English skills

Please provide evidence of the qualifications required for the job by certificates and references.

The position is not divisible.

The job interviews will be placed in calender week 46/2025.

What we offer you:

• attractive remuneration according to collective agreement (as per TV-L) incl. granting of a special annual payment
• vacation entitlement of 30 days in the calendar year and additional days off on 24 / 31 December
• family-friendly, flexible working time model
• VBL - pension scheme in the public sector
• wide range of individual training opportunities
• extensive health and sports programs
• respectful working environment at a renowned university

Your application

For further information please contact PD Dr. Wichard Beenken, Phone +49 3677 69 3258.

volume: Part time 75%
restriction: until 31.12.2028
salary: EG 13 TV-L
beginning: 01.01.2026