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PhD position on the Development and Characterization of X-ray Mirror Optics Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) – The University in the Helmholtz Association
In close partnership with society, KIT develops solutions for urgent challenges – from climate change, energy transition and sustainable use of natural resources to artificial intelligence, sovereignty and an aging population. As The University in the Helmholtz Association, KIT unites scientific excellence from insight to application-driven research under one roof – and is thus in a unique position to drive this transformation. As a University of Excellence, KIT offers its more than 10,000 employees and 22,800 students outstanding opportunities to shape a sustainable and resilient future.
KIT – Science for Impact.
We are looking for the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) for April 1, 2026, limited up to 3 years, for a
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
Become a member of staff of the only German University of Excellence that conducts large-scale research on the national level. Work under excellent working conditions in an interna-tional environment and be active in research and academic education for our future. Benefit from specific training when starting your job and from a wide range of further qualification offers. Use our flexible working time models (flexitime, work from home), our sports and leisure offers, as well as our child and holiday care services. We also pay a share of EUR 25/month in the Job Ticket Baden-Württemberg. Enjoy a large variety of dishes, snacks, and beverages at our canteens.
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.
Please apply online until February 28, 2026 using the vacancy number 55/2026 to Ms Gätcke, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Human Resources, Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344 Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany. For further information, please contact Dr. Last, email: arndt.last@kit.edu
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You can find further information on the internet: www.kit.edu
KIT – The University in the Helmholtz Association
Reference number
55/2026
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