PostDoc (m/f/d) Novel gain media for high energy lasers and laser fusion

The Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI) conducts basic research in the field of nonlinear optics and ultrafast dynamics arising from the interaction of light with matter and pursues applications that emerge from this research. It develops and uses ultra-fast and ultra-intense lasers and laserdriven short-pulse light sources in a broad spectral range in combination with methods of nonlinear spectroscopy.

With its research, MBI fulfils a national mission and is an integral part of the international scientific community.

MBI invites applications for a

PostDoc (m/f/d) Novel gain media for high energy lasers and laser fusion

Job profile:

The future laser-fusion concepts require powerful, efficient and reliable laser drivers capable of delivering highenergy pulses at increasingly demanding repetition rates. A central challenge is the development of laser gain media that combine high energy-storage capability with favourable spectroscopic, thermo-mechanical and nonlinear properties.

We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to investigate novel gain materials for next-generation high-energy laser systems. The project spans the path from fundamental material characterization to the experimental demonstration of advanced amplification concepts.

The successful candidate will investigate the spectroscopic and laser properties of new gain media, evaluate their suitability for high-energy pulse amplification, and identify the physical mechanisms that ultimately limit achievable pulse energy, efficiency and power. Particular attention will be paid to nonlinear effects, optical losses and intensity-dependent limitations relevant to the scaling of laser amplifiers.

The work will include the design, construction and characterization of solid-state amplification experiments in the near-infrared, as well as the generation and characterization of high-energy ultrashort pulses. Depending on the scientific development of the project, nonlinear frequency conversion and harmonic generation may also form part of the research.

The position is embedded in a team with expertise in ultrafast and high-energy laser science and offers substantial scope for independent scientific contributions. The overarching goal is to identify and demonstrate new material and laser concepts that can contribute to future high-energy laser drivers for laser fusion.

Requirements:

Applicants should hold an excellent PhD in physics, electrical engineering, materials science or a closely related field and have a strong experimental background in laser science, photonics or optical materials.

Prior experience in at least two of the following areas is desirable:

• solid-state laser physics and amplification
• high-energy or high-power laser systems
• ultrashort-pulse generation and characterization
• nonlinear optics
• optical and spectroscopic characterization of laser gain materials
• rare-earth-doped laser materials

We are looking for a scientist who enjoys experimental research, develops and tests new ideas independently, and is interested in connecting fundamental laser and materials physics with the demanding technological challenges of future laser-fusion systems. Excellent verbal and written English skills are expected.

Offer:

The position is available immediately and is initially limited to 3 years. This is a full-time position (39 hours per week, part-time can be discussed). Payment will be according to the German TVöD Bund salary scheme for scientists in public research institutions and is set at EG 13 (provided the personal requirements are met).

The MBI promotes an equity-based workplace and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply. If equally qualified, applicants with a disability will be given preference (Schwerbehinderung nach Sozialgesetzbuch IX).

The MBI supports the reconcilability of family and working life and is certified by the audit workandfamily (audit berufundfamilie) as family-friendly. MBI is committed to a diverse, prejudice-aware working environment. The MBI follows the “Charta of Diversity” (Charta der Vielfalt) and implements the Diversity and Inclusion strategy as set up by the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V.

Please upload your application, including cover letter (specifying why you are interested in the position), curriculum vitae, certificates and references electronically via the MBI online recruiting platform at . The deadline for applications is October 31, 2026.

For further information about the position please contact Dr. Uwe Griebner (griebner@mbi-berlin.de).