PhD Candidate in Modeling and Experimental Evaluation of Focal Zooming in High-Energy Lasers | Doktorand*in (w/m/d) zur Modellierung und experimenteller Evaluation von Focal Zooming in Hochenergi

GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH

Darmstadt, Hessen, Deutschland
Published May 11, 2026
Part-time
Fixed-term

Job Summary

This PhD position at GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung focuses on the LASE-FUSE project, aiming to optimize energy coupling in direct-drive inertial confinement fusion. The candidate will work on 'Focal Zooming' techniques to maintain efficient energy delivery during capsule implosion. Day-to-day activities involve developing and extending simulation codes for laser-plasma interactions, designing and operating experimental laboratory setups to validate focal zooming models, and integrating these concepts with beam smoothing techniques. You will collaborate with an international team of researchers, publish findings in scientific journals, and contribute to the development of a digital twin for high-energy laser systems. This role is ideal for a highly motivated researcher looking to contribute to the future of sustainable fusion energy in a world-class scientific environment.

Required Skills

Education

Master's degree or Diploma in Physics, ideally with a focus on Optics, Photonics, or a related field.

Experience

  • Professional experience in physics, specifically in optics, photonics, or related fields
  • Experience with numerical methods or simulation of physical systems
  • Practical experience in optical laboratories, particularly in building and characterizing optical systems

Languages

German (Basic)English (Fluent)

Additional

  • This is a 65% part-time position, limited to 3 years. Candidates must be eligible to work in Germany. The role requires willingness to work in an interdisciplinary, international environment.