T02-D-26-03 Research Associate / PhD Candidate (f/m/d)

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The German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) is being established as a new large-scale research center in Lusatia, Germany. Its mission is to strengthen astrophysics in Germany, foster scientific excellence, and make a lasting contribution to the structural transformation of the region. As an internationally oriented research institution with a strong focus on innovation, the DZA will create new opportunities for scientific leadership while shaping the future of one of Germany's most dynamic research landscapes.

The Leibniz-Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ) is a leading research institution in the area of science and technology as well as service and transfer of crystalline materials. Its goal is to enable solutions to urgent societal challenges, including communication, artificial intelligence, climate protection, and health, through modern electronic and photonic technologies. The work covers the full spectrum from basic research to applied research and pre-industrial development and is carried out in collaboration with national and international partners from academia and industry. IKZ is part of the Forschungsverbund Berlin and a member of the Leibniz Association.

The following position is to be filled at the earliest possible date, fixed-term until 30 June 2029 (employment in accordance with the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act – WissZeitVG):

T02-D-26-03 Research Associate / PhD Candidate (f/m/d)

Numerical Simulation, Scale-up and Optimization of Silicon Crystal Growth in Magnetic Fields

Shared PhD position between the DZA and IKZ

(Remuneration up to German public service pay grade TVöD Bund E13, 75%, depending on personal qualifications)

Employer: German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) | Workplace: Leibniz-Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ), Berlin

Shared position and supervision: This is a shared PhD position between the DZA and IKZ. The candidate will be employed by the DZA and will carry out the the majority of research at the IKZ in Berlin. Scientific supervision will be jointly provided by supervisors from the DZA and IKZ. The position combines the expertise and research environments of both institutions and is embedded in the joint activities related to the technology development for the Einstein Telescope.

The research will contribute to the development and optimization of technologies for the production of high-purity silicon crystals for future gravitational-wave detectors. The work is conducted within the framework of the Einstein Telescope project and combines advanced numerical modelling of crystal growth with Finite Element modelling, process scale-up, optimization, and artificial intelligence.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and apply numerical models for silicon crystal growth in magnetic fields

• Investigate coupled thermal, fluid-dynamic, and electromagnetic processes using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

• Analyze the influence of magnetic fields on melt flow, heat and mass transport, and the crystal-melt interface

• Develop simulation approaches for the scale-up of silicon crystal growth processes to larger crystal diameters

• Perform extensive numerical parameter studies and analyze simulation results

• Investigate and apply machine learning / artificial intelligence methods for the modelling, acceleration, and optimization of crystal growth processes

• Combine physics-based simulations with data-driven modelling approaches

• Contribute to the development of efficient simulation and optimization strategies for future silicon technologies

• Collaborate closely with experimental and theoretical research teams at IKZ, scientists at DZA, and national and international research partners

• Publish scientific results in peer-reviewed journals and present them at national and international conferences

YOUR PROFILE:

• University degree (Master's or equivalent) in physics, astrophysics, chemical/mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field

• Knowledge and practical experience in numerical modelling using CFD software

• Good knowledge of physics and numerical methods

• Interest in fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and/or electromagnetic processes

• Interest in numerical modelling and optimization of complex technological processes

• Independent, structured, and analytical working style

• Strong teamwork skills and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary scientific collaboration

• Excellent written and spoken English skills

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with CFD, Finite element modeling software e.g. multiphysics software, e.g. CGSim, ANSYS, COMSOL, or comparable tools

• Knowledge of electromagnetic field modelling, magnetohydrodynamics, or magnetically influenced flows

• Programming skills, particularly in Python, MATLAB, or comparable languages

• Experience with optimization, design of experiments, or machine learning / artificial intelligence is an advantage

• Knowledge of or interest in silicon technologies and crystal growth

• Interest in the scientific and technological challenges of future gravitational-wave detectors

WE OFFER:

• A unique opportunity to work on a highly topical research theme within the Einstein Telescope project

• A shared PhD position combining the expertise of the DZA and IKZ, with joint scientific supervision

• Employment by the German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) and a research workplace at the Leibniz-Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ) in Berlin

• A scientifically challenging PhD project at the interface of crystal growth, CFD, magnetic fields, numerical optimization, and artificial intelligence

• The opportunity to apply and further develop advanced numerical methods to a scientifically and technologically relevant problem

• An international and interdisciplinary research environment with close collaboration between DZA, IKZ, and national and international research partners

• Access to modern simulation, computing, and research infrastructures

• The opportunity to pursue a PhD in an internationally oriented research environment

• Remuneration in accordance with the German public service pay scale (TVöD Bund), including annual special payments and attractive benefits

• Flexible working hours and family-friendly working conditions

The DZA and IKZ are equal opportunity employers and actively support the reconciliation of work and family life. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons and individuals with equivalent status under German social law are also expressly welcomed. Where candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.

Please submit your application, including a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, and all relevant certificates, via the DZA online application portal by 13.11.2026 quoting the reference number T02-D-26-03.

For academic questions, please contact:

Prof. Dr. Günther Hasinger
Wissenschaftlicher Geschäftsführer
Deutsches Zentrum für Astrophysik gGmbH
Email: Guenther.Hasinger@dzastro.de
www.deutscheszentrumastrophysik.de

Dr. Natasha Dropka
Leibniz-Institute for Crystal Growth (IKZ)
Email: natascha.dropka@ikz-berlin.de
www.ikz-berlin.de

We look forward to receiving your application!

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