Postdoc position in ultrafast laser science for HHG based coherent diffraction imaging of nanoparticles and ultrafast dynamics in Zürich

100%, Zurich, temporary

The Nanostructures and Ultrafast X-ray Science Group (Prof. Daniela Rupp) in the Department of Physics is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for their femtosecond laser lab.

This project will be based in the recently started group of Prof. Daniela Rupp for Nanostructures and Ultrafast X-ray Science at ETH Zurich.

The rapid development concurrently observed at X-ray free-electron lasers (FELs) and high-harmonic generation sources (HHG) opens up unique opportunities to create, steer, and follow ultrafast (coherent) excitation and plasma formation dynamics on a scale of nanometers and femtoseconds. We use single atomic clusters or nanodroplets in free flight, excited and driven by intense light fields. The light-induced complex dynamics in the single nanoparticles are probed via time-resolved coherent diffractive imaging and the simultaneous spectroscopic measurement of reaction products. In this context we develop and advance innovative detection schemes, beam focusing, manipulation and characterization tools as well as sample delivery systems, exploiting the qualities of FELs and HHG sources.

At ETH Zurich, we will develop and construct a high-intensity HHG beamline for the application of time-resolved diffraction imaging of isolated nanoparticles, with the goal of making ultrafast excitation and ionization dynamics in nanoscale matter directly visible.

You will lead the setup of our femtosecond laser lab and the operation of the 30 fs /20 mJ NIR laser system. With the team, you will develop a source for intense femtosecond XUV-HHG pulses and implement a high-intensity XUV experiment for time-resolved diffraction imaging of nanoscale electron dynamics. Further, you have the possibility to actively participate in interdisciplinary projects and beamtimes of the group within international collaborations at XUV and X-ray FELs (SwissFEL, FERMI, FLASH, E-XFEL, LCLS) and laser facilities (MBI). You will be working within a friendly, open-minded and motivated team. You will be involved in supervising of students and teaching (~20%).

You have a doctorate in physics or a related field and prior knowledge in ultrafast laser science, the operation of intense femtosecond laser systems and high harmonic generation sources. Further experience in the development and execution of experiments with attosecond sources, free-electron lasers, gas phase ion/electron spectroscopy or single particle imaging will be considered an asset.

Your curiosity and intrinsic motivation to discover, learn and pass on your knowledge go hand in hand with well-organized and safe working habits and a team player attitude. You are proficient in oral and written English. This postdoctoral position is full-time, with possible starting dates from November 2019.

We endorse diversity and gender equality. Please send us your application!

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