Postdoctoral Laser Scientist

Work group:

FS-LA-R

Area of research:

Scientific / postdoctoral posts

Starting date:

16.09.2026

Job description:

DESY

“SP007 - Enabling science for 24-30 keV"Join us in a key role to push the boundaries of science at the European XFEL. We are seeking a motivated researcher to work on a significant initiative that will enhance our accelerator's performance and enable a new class of experiments. You will play a central part in the design and commissioning of a next-generation laser beam shaping system, making a direct and valuable impact on the capabilities of a world-leading research facility.

About your role:

• Design, implement, and commission a software-controlled automated telescope system for dynamic adjustment of the laser beam size
• Develop and implement a robust numerical metric, derived from camera images, to objectively quantify laser beam quality with respect to use in photocathodes and characterize deviations from the ideal profile
• Investigate and implement apodized beam shaping techniques (e.g., using graded filters) to minimize diffraction artifacts and improve beam transportability
• Develop an intelligent, AI/Reinforcement Learning-based system to automatically align the beam transport by adjusting steering mirrors based on camera feedback
• Investigate the feasibility and trade-offs of relocating the beam shaping setup closer to the photocathode
• Collaborate closely with the DESY-MXL group and other beamline scientists on defining requirements and validating results
• Document all developed systems, commission hardware and software, and ensure knowledge transfer for routine operation

About you:

• PhD in Physics, Optics, Laser Science, or a closely related engineering field
• Demonstrated experience with laser systems, optical setups, and beam transport and characterization
• Experience with the automation of experimental systems, including hardware control (e.g., motorized mirrors, cameras) and software integration
• Strong programming skills, preferably in Python, for data analysis, simulation, and instrument control
• Proven ability to work independently on a complex technical project, from conceptual design to implementation and commissioning
• Knowledge of machine learning or reinforcement learning applied to control systems is a strong asset
• Experience with accelerator technology, specifically photocathodes is an asset
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a collaborative, international scientific team

Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our DESY employees are particularly important to us. Gender equality is an important aspect for us. To support work life balance we offer flexible working hours and variable part-time. You will benefit from our family-friendly and collegial atmosphere, our established health management and occupational pension provision. As a public funded employer, we offer you a secure workplace and facilitate your individual career with our comprehensive training and development opportunities. Remuneration is according to the regulations of the TV-AVH. DESY offers its employees a financial supplement for a German job ticket (Deutschland-Ticket) at both locations.

We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal:Apply now DESY promotes the professional development of women and therefore strongly encourages women to apply for the position to be filled. In addition, severely handicapped persons with equal aptitude are given preferential consideration. The advertised positions are basically suitable for part-time employment.You can find further information here: https://www.desy.de/career/Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESYPersonalabteilung | Notkestraße 85 | 22607 HamburgPhone: +49 40 8998-3392

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.