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The Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) in Hamburg, Germany, is offering two fully funded PhD positions in laser science, specifically focused on laser development for the Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) program. This opportunity is part of the IGNYTe Project, which is funded by the German Ministry of Research, Technology and Space under the Fusion 2040 initiative.
Key Details:
* Funding Type: Fully Funded
* Location: Hamburg, Germany
* Degree Level: PhD
* Available Subjects: Laser Physics, Optics
* Application Deadline: June 30, 2025
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Research Project Overview
The IGNYTe Project aims to address critical challenges in fusion technology by developing an efficient ultraviolet (UV) laser light source for direct drive fusion target compression. As a PhD candidate, you will engage in:
* Development of incoherent fibre front-end lasers and Joule-class Yb:YLF amplifiers.
* Advanced third-harmonic generation schemes.
* Integration into DESY’s advanced control systems.
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Key Responsibilities
Depending on your focus area, your PhD role will involve:
LASER DEVELOPMENT PATH
* Design and build fibre or solid-state laser front-ends.
* Implement spectral and temporal shaping of broadband nanosecond pulses.
BROADBAND UV GENERATION PATH
* Engineer nonlinear multi-pass cells for UV spectral broadening.
* Investigate third-order nonlinearities in energetic, temporally incoherent fields.
GENERAL TASKS
* Collaborate with international laser research groups.
* Publish findings and present at global conferences.
* Advance technology readiness levels (TRLs) of developed systems.
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Benefits of the Scholarship
* Access to cutting-edge laser laboratories and computing clusters.
* No teaching requirement, allowing full-time focus on research.
* A vibrant, international scientific community.
* Fully funded employment with benefits, including:
* 30 days of paid vacation.
* Company pension (VBL).
* Subsidized Deutschland-Ticket (Job Ticket).
* Health programs and corporate benefits.
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Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the DESY PhD program, candidates must:
* Hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Optics, Photonics, or a related field.
* Have at least six months of hands-on experience in laser laboratories.
* Demonstrate strong knowledge of pulsed laser systems and/or nonlinear optics.
* Exhibit excellent English communication skills and be a strong team player.
* Show high motivation for laser development in applied fusion research.
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Application Procedure
To apply, submit the following documents via DESY's online application portal:
1. Cover letter.
2. CV.
3. University transcripts.
4. Two letters of reference (submitted through DESY’s tool).
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
DESY is committed to equal opportunity, diversity, and inclusion. Applications from women, indigenous people, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged. In cases of equal qualification, preference will be given to severely disabled applicants.
For more information and to apply, visit the DESY Hamburg PhD Scholarship page [https://jobs.stellenpool24.de/html/37805/373.html].