Research Associate (f/m/d) Silicon Technologies

The German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) is being established as a new large-scale research center in Lusatia, Germany. Its mission is to strengthen astrophysics in Germany, foster scientific excellence, and make a lasting contribution to the structural transformation of the region. As an internationally oriented research institution with a strong focus on innovation, the DZA will create new opportunities for scientific leadership while shaping the future of one of Germany's most dynamic research landscapes.

The following position is to be filled at the earliest possible date, initially for a fixed term of two years (employment in accordance with the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act – WissZeitVG):

Research Associate (f/m/d)

Silicon Technologies

Focus on Mirror and Bonding Technologies for Next-Generation Gravitational-Wave Detectors

(Remuneration up to German public service pay grade TVöD Bund E13, subject to the successful candidate meeting the relevant requirements)

Within the DZA’s Center for Technology Development, a new research and technology area for silicon technologies is currently being established. The focus is on the development, fabrication, and characterization of ultra-high-purity silicon components as well as innovative bonding technologies for cryogenic mirror and test-mass systems of future gravitational-wave detectors.

Your Responsibilities:

• Conduct scientific research on mirror systems for third-generation gravitational-wave detectors, with a particular focus on ultra-high-purity silicon substrates
• Perform materials science, optical, and thermo-mechanical characterization of mirrors and mirror components
• Investigate thermo-optical and thermo-mechanical properties at room temperature and possibly under cryogenic conditions
• Develop, test, and evaluate bonding processes for silicon components
• Contribute to the development of process chains for bonding, handling, polishing, coating, and qualification of mirror components
• Analyze and interpret experimental data
• Support the setup, operation, and further development of experimental laboratory and measurement environments in compliance with applicable safety, quality, and documentation standards
• Collaborate with national and international research partners and publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences
• Contribute to the supervision of Bachelor’s and Master’s students

Your Profile:

• Completed university degree and PhD in Physics, Materials and Surface Science, Engineering, or a related experimental field
• Experience in at least two of the following areas:
• (Quantum) optics and optical precision metrology
• Experimental optical or mechanical characterization methods
• Materials science (e.g., silicon technologies, optical materials, surface and interface physics)
• Cryogenic and vacuum technologies
• Experience in experimental scientific research in laboratory or technology environments
• Interest in research topics related to gravitational-wave physics and optical precision measurement systems
• Experience in scientific research and publication

Desirable qualifications include:

• Experience with optical characterization, interferometric methods, or bonding technologies,
• Knowledge of numerical simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, Python)
• Experience with cryogenic or vacuum-based experimental environments
• Independent and structured working style, strong teamwork skills, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Excellent written and spoken English skills

We Offer:

• The opportunity to help establish Germany's largest research center dedicated to astrophysics
• The chance to actively contribute to the scientific and economic transformation of the Lusatia region
• Significant freedom to shape a new research and technology division and contribute to pioneering scientific developments
• An international, interdisciplinary, and highly collaborative working environment with leading experts from academia and industry
• Competitive remuneration in accordance with the German public service pay scale (TVöD Bund), including annual special payments and an attractive benefits package
• Flexible working hours, family-friendly working conditions, and opportunities for part-time employment

The DZA is committed to increasing the representation of women in science and therefore particularly encourages qualified women to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons and individuals with equivalent status under German social law are also expressly welcomed. Where candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.

Please submit your application by 06.09.2026 via our online application portal. Upload your complete application documents (cover letter, detailed CV, copies of certificates and a possible starting date) and quote the reference number T02-26-02.