PhD Candidate in Imaging Ultrafast Molecular Dynamics

Location: Mt. Scopus Jerusalem, Israel

About Our Research: The research group led by Prof. Daniel Strasser focuses on developing novel experimental techniques to visualize ultrafast molecular dynamics, probing mechanisms that break chemical bonds and form new ones in isolated molecules and clusters. The group is involved in several research projects, including: (1) Roaming reaction mechanisms, which form non-trivial products, such as the methanol dication, using extreme-ultraviolet pulses. (2) Intramolecular and intermolecular charge-transfer dynamics, which involve ultrafast laser ionization triggering molecular structural rearrangement, focusing on charge redistribution by proton and electron transfer mechanisms. The research combines cutting-edge experimental methods, including femtosecond lasers and velocity map imaging, with theoretical modeling.

Link to the group's website for more information on research opportunities: https://sites.google.com/view/daniel-strasser-lab/home

Job Description: We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team and work on imaging ultrafast molecular dynamics. The candidate will be involved in visualizing and understanding molecular fragmentation, ionization, and other related processes using advanced experimental techniques. The position involves hands-on work with ultrafast lasers, ultra-high vacuum systems, particle detectors, and programming for data analysis. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience in experimental physical chemistry and molecular physics in a dynamic research environment.

About Your Supervisor: Prof. Daniel Strasser is a leading researcher in the field of ultrafast molecular dynamics and femtochemistry. He is based at the Institute of Chemistry at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Prof. Strasser’s research is centered on understanding molecular fragmentation, roaming reaction mechanisms, and charge transfer dynamics through the use of cutting-edge experimental techniques. He is committed to fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for young scientists, encouraging exploration and innovation.

Funding: We encourage you to ask about our approach to compensation during the interview process.

Your Profile (To excel in this role, we seek candidates with):

• An MSc-level background in physical chemistry or molecular physics.
• Basic programming skills.
• Ability and willingness to learn how to implement and use advanced technologies, such as femtosecond lasers, ultra-high vacuum, particle detectors, and multidimensional data analysis.
• A strong motivation to work with experimental hardware and develop analysis code for measured data.

Application: Please submit your application as three separate PDFs, each containing the following:

• Letter of motivation
• CV (including a list of publications)
• Copy of your original academic degree(s)

Job type: PhD

Field: Spectroscopy, Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics, Programming Languages, Image Processing, Experimental Physics, Laser Physics, Particle Physics, Molecular Physics, Physical Chemistry