Postdoc for laser integration and operation at IFuEL

Remuneration Group 13 | Limited: 2 + 1 years | Starting date: earliest possible | ID: FSPO004/2026 | Deadline: 14.12.2026 | Full-time/Part-time DESY, with more than 2900 employees at its two locations in Hamburg and Zeuthen, is one of the world's leading research centres. Its research focuses on decoding the structure and function of matter, from the smallest particles of the universe to the building blocks of life. In this way, DESY contributes to solving the major questions and urgent challenges facing science, society and industry. With its ultramodern research infrastructure, its interdisciplinary research platforms and its international networks, DESY offers a highly attractive working environment in the fields of science, technology and administration as well as for the education of highly qualified young scientists. DESY is one of the leading synchrotron radiation research centers worldwide. The 3rd generation source PETRA III, available since 2009, is one of the most brilliant hard X-ray sources worldwide. Additionally, DESY has a strong background in developing new laser systems for various applications. In the IFuEL (Inertial Fusion Energy Laser Development und HED-Analytics) project under the Fusion 2040 Program of the BMFTR, DESY is developing a highly efficient fusion graded laser as a prototypical system for an inertial fusion power plant. We want to use and test the laser by creating a fusion relevant plasma in a H2/He jet to irradiate Plasma Facing Materials (PFM). The charged particles originating from the plasma recreate conditions in a prototypical fusion power plant. For the integration of the new fusion graded long pulse laser in the new target chamber, that will house the H2/He jet and material science analytical tools, we are seeking an enthusiastic scientist. He/she should be eager to advance his/her high energy laser skill and apply it to plasma physics and materials research. The job offers early career and experienced scientists the great opportunity to be part of a state-of-the-art test facility development for fusion research. In addition, the candidate will gain unpresented inside into the challenges in the conception of the prototypical fusion power plant, which holds the key to unlimited energy of the future. The detailed tasks are: #### **About your role:** * Development of a new target chamber that houses the fusion relevant plasma generated through laser matter interaction between the new fusion graded laser and a H2/He jet jointly with a team of engineers and scientist * Integration of the new high-energy, high-repetition rate laser into the target area for the creation of fusion relevant plasmas * Performing plasma generation and material science experiments with the new installation in cooperation with other team members #### **Good reasons to join:** Look forward to a unique working environment on our international research campus. Respectful cooperation and the well-being of our staff are central