Max Planck Society 
Hamburg, Germany Offer Summary
The Max Planck Society’s International Max Planck Research School for Ultrafast Imaging and Structural Dynamics (IMPRS UFAST) in Hamburg is recruiting 23 interdisciplinary PhD candidates (f/m/d) for a 3‑year program starting summer/autumn 2026. The focus is on ultrafast phenomena, X‑ray physics, and dynamical imaging across physics, chemistry, and biology, with projects ranging from quantum materials to extreme‑timescale spectroscopy. Candidates should hold or be completing an MSc in physics, chemistry, or related fields and be passionate about rigorous research. Applications close 6 November 2026 via the online portal; projects begin in 2026, with possible earlier start in exceptional cases.
Generated from stored offer content. Always confirm details in the official posting.
Project Description
23 interdisciplinary PhD positions (f/m/d) | Ultrafast Science and Quantum Materials
Young Researchers Hamburg Solid State Research & Material Sciences Job Offer from September 15, 2026
The International Max Planck Research School for Ultrafast Imaging and Structural Dynamics in Hamburg, Germany, offers a structured PhD program focusing on ultra-fast phenomena, X-ray physics and dynamical imaging in all areas of science, covering physics, chemistry and biology.
23 interdisciplinary PhD positions in Ultrafast Science and Quantum Materials – IMPRS UFAST – Hamburg
Research
The program offers exciting research opportunities at ultra-intense electron and X-ray sources to directly observe atomic motions during primary events. The use of ultrafast imaging over the relevant length and time scales generates new levels of understanding of the interplay between structure and dynamics. Specific areas include the theoretical and experimental aspects of quantum materials and atomically resolved dynamics, fundamental light-matter interaction, accelerator-based light sources, coherent controlled molecular and solid-state dynamics, molecular imaging, extreme timescale spectroscopy, ultrafast optics and X-ray science
We offer
- A range of PhD positions in these areas: open positions
- State-of-the-art research facilities on an extensive science campus
- Cross-disciplinary research in a vibrant, international scientific environment
- First-class supervision and mentorship by a team of internationally renowned experts
- Outstanding training in your scientific subject and transferable skills (in English)
- A 3-year employment contract based on the German federal pay agreement
Requirements
We seek applicants with an excellent academic background. You hold (or are about to complete) an MSc degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, or related areas. You need to be passionate about research in ultrafast phenomena and motivated to conduct rigorous scientific work over the full degree period.
Application
Applications must be submitted via the online application portal.
The application deadline is 06th November 2026. PhD projects start in summer/autumn 2026. In exceptional cases, it may be possible to start the research project earlier. For any further questions or problems regarding the application process or the online system, please contact the IMPRS UFAST coordinator.
