PostDoc Position (fdm) Time-resolved Cathodoluminescence Spectroscopy of Nonpolar (Al,Ga)N Quantum Wells (Full-time)

PDI has recently opened a new application laboratory for time-resolved cathodoluminescence (TRCL) spectroscopy which combines high spatial spectral and temporal resolution to investigate the dynamics of charge carriers in semiconductors
with a particular focus on optimized deep ultraviolet (UV) detection. This unique experimental facility is part of the analytical scanning electron microscopy (SEM) group in the semiconductor spectroscopy department. First investigations have provided new insights into the spectral features of the ultrawide bandgap semiconductor AlN as well as into the role of point defects in polar c-plane quantum wells for deep UV light-emitting devices (LEDs). The current project would expand these spectroscopic investigations to the nonpolar m-plane growth direction of AlN and (Al Ga)N heterostructures. On the one hand measurements in this geometry would allow us to investigate the importance of light extraction efficiency linked to the valence band symmetries in high Al content alloys. On the other hand the polar wurtzite crystal structure induces strong polarization fields across heterostructures that strongly influence device characteristics but are absent for nonpolar growth. Dedicated samples for this study will be grown at PDI by molecular beam epitaxy.

• (TR)CL spectroscopy of nonpolar AlN layers and (Al Ga)N heterostructures
• Complementary photoluminescence measurements
• k.p calculations of band profiles and transition energies for the investigated heterostructures
• Publication of results in relevant journals and presentation at scientific conferences
• Contribute measurements to collaborations with internal and external partners
• Communication with collaborating research groups
• Support PhD and masters students in their lab work and data analysis tasks

• PhD in experimental solid state physics.
• Scientific track record with first-author publications and conference presentations.
• Experience with widegap semiconductor materials characterization preferably usingluminescence spectroscopy.
• Knowledge of the wurtzite (AlGa)N material system and its peculiarities.
• Complementary experience in simulating contributions to the efficiency of LED devices.
• Proficiency in data analysis using Python.
• Motivated team player with a high level of communication skills.

This position is available from 01.10.2026 and is limited to 24 months.
Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service (TVöD Bund) at the level of E13 taking work experience and special professional skills into account.

• Modern laboratories with a wide range of experimental techniques.
• Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields.
• International and culturally diverse community.
• Location in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport connections.
• Subsidized travel ticket.
• Possibility to participate in professional development and/or exchange programs.
• Mobile work.

The Paul Drude Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. and a member of the Leibniz Association. The institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science condensed matter physics and device the MBE department at PDI a dedicated team of scientists technicians postdocs and students operates 13 MBE systems for the synthesis of a wide range of material systems including arsenides nitrides oxides and 2D materials. This in-house collaborative environment offers abundant opportunities for both direct and indirect learning in various MBE technologies making it an ideal place to start a career in the field.

For scientific information about the project please contact Dr. Jonas Lähnemann ().

With approximately 100 employees and more than 15 nationalities PDI is committed to building a talented inclusive and culturally diverse workforce. We understand that our shared future is guided by basic principles of fairness and mutual respect.

As anequal opportunity and family-friendly employer we offer highly flexible employment conditions such as flexible working hours parental leave and home office and we strive to create a family- and life-conscious working environment.

Among equally qualified applicants preference will be given to candidates from marginalized groups. That means we welcome every qualified application regardless of sex and gender origin nationality religion belief health and disabilities age or sexual orientation.

PDI follows our gender equality plan so we want to engage women* to apply at PDI to balance the gender ratio in science. Disabled applicants with equal qualifications and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

Please upload or email your application to: by 15.06.2026.
Your documents must include

• a dedicated cover letter
• CV
• diploma(s) and transcript(s)
• publication list (if exists)
• letter(s) of recommendation/contact information of references (if exist)