100%, Zurich, fixed-term
The Ultrafast Spectroscopy and Attosecond Science group at the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich develops experimental methods for measuring and controlling electronic dynamics in molecules on attosecond time scales, during chemical reactions and in the liquid phase.
Project background
The position is part of Attochirality, a new ERC Advanced Grant project that will establish attosecond chiroptical pump-probe spectroscopy. The project combines a 100 kHz few-cycle Yb-fibre laser, circularly polarized isolated attosecond pulses, tuneable 1-2 fs deep-ultraviolet and near-infrared pulses, and electron-ion coincidence detection in a reaction microscope. The scientific programme addresses chiral electronic wave packets, charge migration and charge transfer, and the transition from isolated to microhydrated and fully solvated molecules.
The postdoctoral researcher will play a leading experimental role in establishing the new optical platform and spin-resolved detection capability. The position combines advanced few-cycle and XUV optics, attosecond pulse metrology, reaction-microscope spectroscopy and the development of spin-sensitive electron detection for time-resolved studies of chiral charge migration.
Job description
- Lead the realization and commissioning of the optical platform for circularly polarized isolated attosecond pulses, including the integration of CEP stabilization, XUV optics and active path-length stabilization
- Develop and validate methods for the complete temporal and polarization characterization of circularly polarized isolated attosecond pulses using three-dimensional momentum-resolved photoelectron measurements
- Integrate and commission spin-resolved electron detection
- Support and scientifically coordinate the reaction-microscope experiments on bound electronic wave packets, charge migration, charge transfer and microhydrated chiral molecules
- Mentor doctoral and Master's researchers in optical alignment, detector operation, data analysis and good experimental practice
- Work closely with the Attochirality team, including the group's electronic and mechanical engineers and external collaborators in spin detection and theoretical modeling
- Contribute to project planning, risk mitigation, publications, conference presentations and the dissemination of results
Profile
- A PhD in experimental atomic, molecular or optical physics, physical chemistry, photonics, laser physics or a closely related field, completed by the starting date
- A strong publication record demonstrating independent experimental research
- Substantial hands-on experience in at least two of the following areas: femtosecond or attosecond laser systems, high-harmonic generation, XUV beamlines, CEP-sensitive experiments, ultrafast pulse characterization, charged-particle momentum spectroscopy, electron detectors or spin-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy
- Proven ability to design, construct, commission and troubleshoot complex optical and vacuum instrumentation
- Strong skills in experimental control and scientific data analysis, preferably using Python, C/C++, MATLAB, LabVIEW or related tools
- The ability to guide junior researchers and coordinate work across a collaborative experimental project
- Excellent written and spoken English and a rigorous, constructive and collegial working style
- Experience with high-harmonic generation, circular-polarization metrology, reaction microscopes/COLTRIMS, Mott or spin-LEED detectors, active interferometric stabilization or high-repetition-rate laser systems would be particularly valuable
Workplace
Vladimir-Prelog-Weg 2, 8093 Zürich, Switzerland
We offer
- A fully funded full-time postdoctoral position for one year (renewable up to five years), with the preferred starting date 01.10.2026.
- A leading role in the development of a new experimental platform at the frontier of attosecond science and chiral molecular dynamics
- Substantial scientific independence and the opportunity to shape experimental methods and research directions within the ERC project
- Access to state-of-the-art high-repetition-rate laser systems, XUV sources, reaction-microscope instrumentation and spin-sensitive detectors
- Dedicated support from electronic and mechanical engineers and close collaboration with leading international theory and experimental groups
- Opportunities to supervise junior researchers, build an international scientific profile and present results at major conferences
- Internationally competitive employment conditions according to ETH Zurich standards
Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity and sustainability
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents in a single PDF where possible:
- A cover letter explaining your motivation and the relevance of your experience to the position
- A curriculum vitae including a complete publication list and conference contributions
- A concise research statement (maximum two pages) describing your principal scientific contributions and the experimental directions you would like to develop
- Copies of degree certificates, including the PhD certificate or confirmation of the expected completion date
- Names and contact details of 3 referees
The preferred starting date is 01.10.2026 or upon agreement. Review of applications will begin on 13.07.2026 and continue until the position is filled.
Further information aboutthe Ultrafast Spectroscopy and Attosecond Science group can be found on our Website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Hans Jakob Wörner, hwoerner@ethz.ch (no applications).
Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.