PhD Student (f/m/d) for Layer and Interface Formation of Defect-Tolerant Functional Materials Using X-ray Spectroscopy

Kennziffer: SE 2025/23

In the Department Interface Design, we study the structure function relationship between the chemical and electronic surface and interface properties of thin-film layer stacks and the performance of energy conversion materials and devices (e.g., solar cells, batteries, etc). We are responsible for the UHV-based spectroscopy (XAS, XPS, XES, RIXS, HAXPES) in the Energy Materials In-situ Laboratory Berlin (EMIL). In addition, we operate a lab-based ultra-high vacuum (UHV) surface analysis tool and the HiKE (HAXPES) endstation at BESSY II.
Under the umbrella of the Collaborative Research Center ChemPrint established at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), we will embark on a project to characterize the layer and heterostructure formation of photovoltaic devices based on antimony chalcogenide thin films. The doctoral researchers will focus on complementary tasks, which will include collaboration with FAU partners on atomic layer deposition (ALD) synthesis and advanced characterization of materials. The primary expertise of the Department of Interface Design is in characterization of materials and interfaces using various advanced X-ray spectroscopic methods, and the positions will largely focus on this aspect of research.
The doctoral researchers will be based at the HZB in Berlin-Adlershof; occasional travel to FAU will be required, as well as regular remote participation in discussions and activities related to ChemPrint.

Your Tasks

• Characterisation of chemical and electronic structures of antimony chalcogenide films and layer stacks using X-ray and electron spectroscopic methods
• In addition to films acquired from collaborators, a research-scale Atomic Layer Deposition reactor will be constructed at HZB as part of the project. It is envisioned that the responsibility for this task will lie primarily with one of the two doctoral researchers, with assistance and support from the members of the Department of Interface Design/HZB and from FAU colleagues.
• Use of various X-ray probes to analyse the chemical and electronic structure of the involved surfaces, interfaces and material volume, which should provide crucial insights for a knowledge-based optimisation approach
• Support the further development of spectroscopic methods for the characterisation of antimony chalcogenide-based materials and interfaces
• Writing beamtime applications, organizing and supporting synchrotron measurement campaigns
• Coordinating exchange of samples and findings with project partners, particularly other groups within the ChemPrint SFB
• Presentation and publication of results at international conferences/workshops and in peer-reviewed journals

Your Profile

• We are looking for a highly motivated and curious scientist holding an M.Sc. degree in physics, (physical) chemistry, or material science.
• Knowledge in the operation of ultrahigh vacuum equipment and using X-ray spectroscopies is mandatory.
• Background in photovoltaic materials research is appreciated, but not required (enthusiasm for such topics is strongly recommended!).
• We will expect from you an independent communication and collaboration with project partners to organize sample exchange and measurement campaigns.
• Excellent English communication skills are necessary. Additional German skills are advantageous. A high level of intercultural competence and ability to work in a team is necessary.

Your Benefits at HZB

• You will work in the Energy Materials In-Situ Laboratory Berlin (EMIL) at the renowned BESSY II synchrotron light source of the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), located in Berlin Adlershof
• HZB is part of the Helmholtz Association, the largest German non-university research organization contributing to solve global challenges.
• Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
• Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
• Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office
• Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
• 30 days holiday/year
• Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
• Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
• And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!

Fixed term contract for 48 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).

How to apply

We ask you to enclose the following documents with your application:

• Motivation letter that includes your research interests and explains why you are applying for this position
• Curriculum vitae with the stages of your career, publications, research experience and the contact details of at least two scientific references
• Certificates and grades

We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by 09.09.2025. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by any other means (such as email or mail) in the application process.

We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities.

Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH
Hahn-Meitner-Platz 1, 14109 Berlin
www.helmholtz-berlin.de

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Climate change poses serious challenges to the whole world.
At Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, we are researching materials for a climate-neutral future. 1200 employees from all over the world are working together at HZB towards this goal. Join us, and help us achieve it!
Learn more about HZB on our website.

CONTACT

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Marcus Bär
+49 (030) 8062 - 15641
marcus.baer@helmholtz-berlin.de

IMPRINT & DATA PROTECTION