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.