The Helmholtz Institute Jena (HI Jena) is a joint institution of the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena and the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research GmbH in Darmstadt. The institute is mainly focused on applied and fundamental research at the borderline of high-power lasers and particle accelerators.

For the Relativistic Laser Plasma Theory group of the institute, we are looking for a

Postdoctoral Scientist / Researcher (all genders)
in Relativistic High-Intensity Laser-Plasma Theory and Simulation

Posting ID: 24.168-4233

About Jena: A Hub of Innovation

Jena, a picturesque college town in the heart of Germany, is renowned for its longstanding tradition in optics. This heritage has propelled Jena into becoming a major economic center for the optical industry and an internationally acclaimed hub for cutting-edge science and research. The city’s vibrant academic atmosphere, coupled with its rich cultural scene, provides an ideal environment for scientific innovation and collaboration.

Helmholtz Institute Jena: Pioneering High-Field Science

The Helmholtz Institute Jena (HI Jena) stands at the forefront of high-field science, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of matter under extreme conditions. Our cutting-edge research focuses on the physics of extremely strong electromagnetic fields and their wide-ranging applications. This work is instrumental in developing novel particle beam and radiation sources, with potential impacts across various scientific and technological domains.

State-of-the-art Facilities

At HI Jena, we pride ourselves on our world-class high-power laser systems, including JETi200, a high-intensity, ultra-short pulse laser system, and Polaris, one of the world’s most powerful fully diode-pumped laser systems. These advanced systems enable us to generate ultra-bright light pulses with unprecedented intensities and field strengths. Such capabilities are crucial for conducting high-intensity plasma physics experiments and exploring new frontiers in high-field science. Additionally, a new target area will soon become operational, allowing combined experiments with both lasers at ultra-precise timing. This unique setup will enable cutting-edge research, such as radiation reaction experiments, further advancing our exploration of extreme light-matter interactions.

Research Focus: Theoretical Explorations in High-Field Science

As a theoretical postdoctoral researcher, you will be at the heart of our high-field science investigations. Your work will involve:

• Developing theoretical and phenomenological models for laser-plasma based particle acceleration
• Simulating X-ray and gamma-ray radiation generation processes in high-intensity laser-plasma interactions
• Investigating attosecond physics phenomena through advanced computational techniques.

A particular emphasis of your research will be on quantum processes occurring in extreme electromagnetic fields, such as electron-positron pair production in strong fields, as well as higher-order processes, spin- and polarization phenomena or radiation reaction. Your theoretical work and simulations will directly support and guide our experimental team, fostering a synergistic approach to pushing the boundaries of high-field science.

Bridging Theory and Experiment

In this role, you will work closely with our experimental team, creating a vital link between theoretical predictions and laboratory observations. This collaborative environment will allow you to:

• develop and refine theoretical models based on experimental insights
• design and conduct numerical simulations to guide experimental setups
• analyze and interpret experimental data through the lens of advanced theoretical frameworks
• contribute to the planning and optimization of high-field experiments.

Join us in this exciting journey to unravel the mysteries of high-field science, where theory and experiment converge to explore the extremes of light-matter interactions. Your contributions will be crucial in advancing our knowledge and potentially uncovering new phenomena in the realm of high-field physics.

Are you ready to push the boundaries of theoretical physics and high-field science? Apply now and be part of our dynamic, world-class research team at Helmholtz Institute Jena!

Your skills and attributes for success:

We are seeking a candidate with a strong background in theoretical physics and high-field science, coupled with the ability to bridge theory and computational methods. The ideal applicant will possess the following qualifications and attributes:

• PhD (awarded or near completion) in Theoretical Physics or a related field, preferably with a thesis in high-field science
• previous research experience in one or more areas such as relativistic laser-plasma physics, laser-plasma based particle acceleration, laser-driven X-ray or gamma-ray sources, radiation reaction, or quantum field theory in strong external fields
• solid understanding of theoretical concepts and numerical methods used in high-field science, including relevant programming skills and experience with high-performance computing
• demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality research results in an academic context, evidenced by peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at international conferences
• strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and apply theoretical models to complex physical phenomena;
• capability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, exhibiting a high degree of initiative and demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to research
• excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with proficiency in German being advantageous
• enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in staying abreast of the latest developments in high-field science and related areas.

As a valued member of our Team you can expect:

• an exciting, positive, creative, challenging and rewarding place to work
• close collaboration with the experimental and theoretical colleagues
• a working group committed to giving you the support needed to nurture your talent and future career development
• a fixed-term 2-year contract embedded in Germany’s largest research foundation, with the salary and benefits based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund) effective at GSI. The position will be established in Jena.

GSI promotes the professional development of women and expressly welcomes applications from women. Handicapped persons will be preferentially considered when equally qualified.

Information about the Helmholtz Institute Jena, FAIR and GSI is available at www.hi-jena.de, www.gsi.de  and www.fair-center.eu.

For any questions, please contact Dr. Daniel Seipt (d.seipt(at)hi-jena.gsi.de), Phone: +49 3641 947-624.

Please submit your application together with the usual documents, stating the postingID24.168-4233 until 2nd of Januray 2025 at the latest

 via the online portal on our job site:

Online-Bewerbungsportal

GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH
Abteilung Personal
Planckstrasse 1
64291 Darmstadt

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