Postdoc position (fmd) – Thermaltransport in thin films, heterostructuresand devices (full-time)

PDI is currently looking to strengthen its expertise in investigating the thermal properties
of epitaxial thin films 2D materials heterostructures and devices. Materials of interest
include wide- and ultra-wide-bandgap materials for power electronics (AlN BN diamond
r-GeO₂ Ga₂O₃) 2D materials (hBN graphene TMDCs) transition metalnitrides
(ScN CrN etc.) novel magnetic materials (Fe₃GeTe₂ NiCo₂O₄ Mn₅Si₃) andarsenide-based
short-period superlattices and complex heterostructures for THzquantum cascade lasers
and detectors. We are looking to hire a postdoctoral researcherto advance and further
develop this research field both theoretically and experimentallyand to extend our
capabilities in thermal spectroscopy techniques. These may include the implementation
of beam-offset time-domain thermoreflectance and time-resolved magneto-optical
Kerr effect spectroscopy. The experimental work shall be complemented by simulations
of thermal transport properties using ab-initio and finite-element modelling of heat
dissipation in thin films heterostructures and across interfaces.

• Conducting and leading innovative and forefront research in materials science
  focused on thermal transport properties.
• Performing and improving measurements based on thermoreflectance techniques.
• Simulation and modeling of heat transfer in heterostructures and across interfaces.
• Publication in renowned journals and dissemination at international conferences.
• Acquisition of competitive funding with the target to establish a self-sustained
  third-party funded research group.
• Contribute measurements to collaborations with internal and external partners.
• Communication with collaborating research groups.
• Supporting and supervising Master and PhD students in their lab work and data analysis
  tasks.

• PhD in solid state physics or related fields.
• Proven expertise in thermal transport measurements and theory.
• Proficiency in optical pump-probe spectroscopy for thermal characterization
  in particular TDTR FDTR and TR-MOKE.
• Versatility in setting up complex experiments from scratch.
• Experience in handling cryogen-based measurement systems.
• Experience in high-frequency modulation and lock-in-based measurement techniques.
• Experience in complex data analysis modeling and simulations of thermal
  transport on the micro- and nanoscale.
• Motivated team player with a high level of communication skills.

This position is available from October 1 2026 and is limited to 2 years.
Salary and benefits are according to the Treaty for German public service (TVöD Bund)
to a level of E13 (100%) taking work experience and special professional skills into account.

• Job security and a good work-life balance
• Modern office located in the heart of Berlin with excellent public transport
  connections and a subsidized travel ticket
• Supportive environment with experts for various scientific sub-fields
• International and culturally diverse community
• Mobile work
• Possibility to participate in professional development and/or exchange
  programs

The Paul Drude Institute is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. and a member
of the Leibniz Association.
We are a globally recognized research institution specializing in the
development of novel functional materials through molecular beam epitaxy.
The institute carries out basic and applied research at the nexus of materials science
condensed matter physics and device engineering.

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 follow 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 qualification
and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.

Please upload your application as a single PDF by July 24. 2026 with the title
of the position in the subject line. The document should include:

• Dedicated cover letter.
• CV- Transcript of Diplomas- Letter(s) of recommendation/contact information
  of references (if existing).
• Publication list (if existing).

For more information about the project please contact PD Dr. Markus R. Wagner
().