The Jülich Centre for Neutron Science (JCNS) operates at the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) in Garching near Munich a suite of high performance neutron scattering instruments. It provides access to these instruments for scientists from universities and research institutions in Germany and throughout the world. Within the user program more than 1000 scientists visit the MLZ every year to perform experiments in the physical, chemical, biological and materials sciences. In addition, JCNS is actively pursuing a research program in the field of soft matter science and condensed matter physics.


We are looking to recruit as soon as possible an

Instrument Scientist / Postdoc - Neutron Backscattering Spectrometer

Your job: As a highly motivated postdoc you will join the neutron backscattering spectrometer team as a 2nd instrument scientist for the instrument SPHERES to support the user program and the instrument development program. Furthermore we support to perform own high profile research in close cooperation with the JCNS subinstitutes in Jülich and Garching in the field of soft matter and biophysics with emphasis on diffusion and relaxation processes in synthetic and bio-polymers, proton diffusion in membranes and electrolytes and water transport in chemical systems (JCNS-1, JCNS-4) or in magnetism (JCNS-2).

Your tasks in detail:

• provide local contact support for users of the neutron backscattering spectrometer SPHERES of JCNS at MLZ
• contribute to the instrument development of SPHERES to meet future experimental challenges
• conduct and disseminate world-class research via publications and conference presentations in the fields mentioned above
• represent and actively work on increasing the user base at MLZ

Your Profile:

• a PhD degree in Physics, Physical Chemistry or a related discipline
• a strong background in experimental condensed matter physics
• a proven track record in quasielastic neutron scattering research would be a distinct advantage
• very good command of written and spoken English
• initiative character, creativity, good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills, result orientation and analytical skills
• ability to work independently and as a player in the SPHERES team
• readiness to work on-call-duty during the user operation periods

Our Offer:

• exciting working environment on an attractive research campus, ideally situated close to the city of Munich
• the position represents an excellent opportunity to carry out research in condensed matter using neutron scattering in a multidisciplinary team at MLZ
• promoting professional development through participation in national and international conferences and through various training programs
• various opportunities to reconcile work and private life
• limited for 3 years with possible longer-term prospects
• full-time position with the option of slightly reduced Tworking hours
• salary and social benefits in conformity with the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Civil Service (TVöD)

Place of employment: Garching (Munich)

We also welcome applications from disabled persons.

We look forward to receiving your application, preferably online via our online recruitment system, quoting the reference number 2019-341.