Vacancy No. 55/2026

PhD position on the Development and Characterization of X-ray Mirror Optics

Part-time 75%

To address the need for X-ray optics with both collimating and wavelength-selective characteristics, miniaturized, reflective optics based on thin foils are a promising approach. Such systems can be used in diffractometry, X-ray spectroscopy, or X-ray microscopy as condenser optics for efficient sample illumination.

Job description

The development of X-ray optics and complex optical systems in collaboration with external partners is a core focus of the research and development activities at the Institute of Microstructure (www.imt.kit.edu/x-rayoptics.php; www.röntgenoptik.de).

You will have the following tasks:

  • Design, simulation, and microfabrication of thin-foil X-ray mirror optics
  • Experimental characterization of X-ray optical performance at the lab-based X-ray sources at IMT
  • Collaboration with industrial and academic partners
  • Dissemination of research results through presentations at internal seminars/workshops and international conferences, with particular emphasis on the publication of papers on the research topic in peer-reviewed journals

    You will join an interdisciplinary and international research team working in a well-equipped cleanroom and dedicated X-ray laboratories. In addition to gaining comprehensive expertise in X-ray optics, you will receive thorough training in microfabrication and microstructure technology.

      The position offers the opportunity to pursue a part-time doctoral degree.

      Personal qualification
      • A completed Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, physics, materials science, or a related field
      • Background or strong interest in optics, simulation, or microfabrication
      • Basic experience with experimental X-ray setups or optical characterization is advantageous
      • Knowledge of programming languages, e.g. Python
      • Strong motivation for interdisciplinary teamwork and research collaboration
      • Fluent written and spoken English skills
      Organizational unit

      Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT)

      Starting date

      01.04.2026

      Salary

      Salary category 13 TV-L, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements.

      Contract duration

      3 years

      Application up to

      28.02.2026

      Contact person in line-management

      For further information, please contact Dr. Last, email: arndt.last@kit.edu

      Application

      Please apply online using the button below for this vacancy number 55/2026 .
      Personnel Support is provided by 

      Ms Gätcke
      phone: +49 721 608-25010,

      Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany

      We prefer to balance the number of employees (f/m/d). Therefore we kindly ask female applicants to apply for this job.
      Recognized severely disabled persons will be preferred if they are equally qualified.