Summary
The Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1772 “mol2Dmat” is offering a PhD (praedoc) position for a research assistant at the Department of Physics. This interdisciplinary role focuses on cutting-edge fundamental research investigating novel collective states and quantum phenomena in heterostructures of molecules and two-dimensional (2D) materials.
PhD Position For Research Assistant at Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
Position Details
| Detail | Specifications |
| Designation | Research Assistant (praedoc) / PhD Student |
| Department | Department of Physics |
| Institution | Freie Universität Berlin (in collaboration with HU Berlin, TU Berlin, and MPI Hamburg) |
| Location | Berlin, Germany |
| Working Hours | 75% of a full assignment |
| Salary / Pay Grade | E 13 TV-L FU (Civil service state level with an annual one-off payment) |
| Contract Duration | Limited until June 30, 2029 |
| Requisition ID | 669 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 3, 2026 |
Research Area
The project sits at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and materials science, specifically within subproject A01: “Collective excited states in molecular lattices” supervised by Prof. Dr. Stephanie Reich. The core research involves:
- Investigating heterostructures of organic and inorganic molecules encapsulated inside 2D materials (like graphene, hBN, and transition metal dichalcogenides).
- Pushing frontiers in quantum materials and exploring previously inaccessible collective phenomena.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Growth of highly ordered molecular layers (phtalocyanine, custom-synthesized dyes) on hBN, graphene, and transition metal dichalcogenides.
- Study of the emerging collective excitations utilizing Raman scattering, linear optical spectroscopy, and near-field microscopy.
- Actively participate in the structured, interdisciplinary graduate program, including tailored training, workshops, retreats, and conference travel.
- Present scientific results through oral seminar presentations and written manuscripts.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Key Requirements:
- A Master’s degree in Physics or a closely related field.
Desirable Criteria:
- Excellent Master’s degree with coursework in solid-state and molecular physics.
- Experimental research expertise of several months (e.g., accumulated during a Master’s thesis) ideally aligned with the project’s experimental methods.
- High motivation and dedication toward pursuing a PhD thesis.
- Excellent command of written and oral English (minimum B2 level).
Benefits and Advantages
- Flexible working hours (flextime) with a proportional allowance for working from home to promote a healthy work-life balance.
- 30 days of annual vacation (plus the office is closed on December 24 and December 31).
- Access to extensive professional and personal training, University Sports Center courses, and health promotion programs.
- Working within an inclusive and diverse research environment that strongly encourages underrepresented groups to apply.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the university’s recruiting portal.
- Click the “Apply now” button on the official Freie Universität Berlin Job Portal.
- Create an applicant profile (required for first-time applicants).
- Submit a detailed application package containing:
- A tailored cover letter explaining why your academic and scientific expertise prepares you for this specific research project.
- A tabular CV.
- Relevant certificates and academic transcripts (BSc, MSc).
Need More Information?
For specific inquiries regarding the position, you can contact Prof. Dr. Stephanie Reich and her colleagues via email at office@crc1772.de or by phone at 030-838-63593.
