2 PhD Positions in Optical and Molecular Physics @ Stefan Hell Labs

2 PhD Positions in Optical and Molecular Physics (f/m/div) (Code number 08/2021)

Development of MINFLUX and MINSTED fluorescence nanoscopy

The Department of Optical Nanoscopy (Prof. Dr. Stefan W. Hell) invites applications for two Ph.D. positions in Optical and Molecular Physics.

New concepts have brought about a paradigm shift in the physical limits to optical analysis of molecular systems. Imaging resolutions of a few nanometers have been demonstrated, well beyond the Abbe/Rayleigh limits. The recently demonstrated MINFLUX (Balzarotti et al., Science, 2017) and MINSTED (Weber et al., Nat. Photonics, 2021) concepts outline a path to further improved minimally invasive, low-light-level analysis in principle down to Ångström length scales. This opens up entirely new experimental opportunities in the study of macromolecules and beyond.

The successful candidates will develop physical measurement schemes based on MINFLUX, MINSTED and related concepts to analyze molecular systems at highest resolution.
Candidates should be highly motivated and prepared to work within a truly multidisciplinary team. They should have (or expect to complete soon) a Master’s degree in Physics or Physical Chemistry or a comparable qualifi cation. A willingness to master challenges in optical design, computer-driven experimental control and data analysis and, crucially, in-depth study of a problem by critical thinking and dedicated physical simulation are all central to success.

The payment is based on the TVöD guidelines (75% of EG 13). The PhD positions are limited to three years with a possibility of extension. Candidates have the opportunity to participate in one of several Ph.D. programs in Heidelberg. Opportunities may also arise from becoming part of a newly established Max Planck School (see http://www.maxplanckschools.de/en/photonics and http://www.maxplanckschools.de/en/mission) with a competitive admission process.
For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Stefan W. Hell (hell-offi ce@mpibpc.mpg.de).

For general questions, please contact Mrs. Höfer-Elfner (fabienne.hoefer-elfner@mr.mpg.de) or Ms. Sabrina Giacalone (sabrina.giacalone@mr.mpg.de) from human resources.

Your Application:
Please submit your application, including a cover letter (explaining background and motivation), your CV and complete transcripts via e-mail as a single PDF fi le with the above reference preferably until July 31, 2021 (excellent applications will be considered year-round) to jobs@vw.mpimf-heidelberg.mpg.de.