The Max Planck Electron Light PhD call offers two funded positions at the Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences. Research combines electron microscopy with silicon quantum photonics. Both positions provide 36 months of MSCA doctoral funding.
Applications close on 1 November 2026. One application covers both projects, and candidates may state a preference. Check the Germany mobility rule before preparing your file, because academic fit alone does not establish eligibility.
Max Planck Electron Light PhD Details
The Ultrafast Dynamics department is led by Professor Claus Ropers. Its two projects form part of the QUEST doctoral network, which has 15 doctoral candidates across participating organisations. Only two of those positions belong to this particular institute call.
One project investigates tailored nanostructures, geometries and beam energies. The other studies hybrid devices linking local quantum states with electron beams. Experimental work is supported by device design, optical coupling and numerical simulations.
Programme / award | Max Planck Electron Light PhD |
|---|---|
Location | Göttingen, Germany, with European secondments |
Level / route | Doctoral research employment |
Duration | 36 months; 39 hours per week |
Verified support | Two fully funded MSCA doctoral positions |
Deadline | 1 November 2026 |
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Max Planck Electron Light PhD Benefits
Funding covers a 36-month doctoral appointment under MSCA conditions. The salary includes living and mobility allowances, with a family allowance where applicable. The listing does not publish one universal salary figure.
These are full-time roles with a 39-hour workweek. The planned start is 1 January 2027 or a mutually agreed date. Network training includes courses, two schools, two workshops and project-specific secondments.
For a separate funded doctoral project in Germany, compare IMPRS CPQM PhD Positions 2027. Its subject, nationality rules and funding conditions differ from this award.
Max Planck Electron Light PhD Eligibility
Candidates need an MSc or equivalent in physics, chemistry or engineering and an excellent academic record. Relevant preparation includes electron microscopy, nano-optics, integrated photonics or quantum optics. Good written and spoken English and collaborative working are expected.
The mobility rule limits residence or main activity in Germany to 12 months in the preceding three years, subject to the stated refugee-procedure exception. Candidates must not hold a doctoral degree and must meet the advertised early-research-career condition. Assess this at the recruitment date, not simply at application.
A different experimental research route is described in Jülich Operando X-ray PhD. Compare its current conditions before choosing an application route.
Requirements and Documents
The preferred application format is a single PDF sent by email. Include complete academic transcripts and a motivation letter explaining scientific fit. If one project is preferred, identify it within the application.
The master’s thesis is requested only if available. At least two reference contacts are required. Keep proof of expected degree completion clear if the certificate has not yet been awarded.
How to Apply
The vacancy accepts one file for both projects. Use the official email ausschreibung26-26@mpinat.mpg.de. This address identifies job code 26-26 rather than an unrelated institute recruitment route. Read the official application instructions.
Project matching depends on qualifications, skills and stated interests. Successful doctoral researchers also participate in GAUSS courses and teaching-assistant duties. The precise project and secondment plan should be confirmed through selection.
Application Deadline
Applications for vacancy 26-26 close on 1 November 2026. Both posts are expected to start on 1 January 2027 or by mutual agreement. The listing states no closing hour or time zone, so submit early.
The two projects differ in length and secondment locations. Project 1 runs 36 months with placements in Copenhagen and Göttingen, and Project 2 runs 32 months in Göttingen with secondments to Copenhagen and Dresden. Check the vacancy page for later changes.
For another doctoral funding model and subject area, see CERN Doctoral Student Programme 2027. Treat its funding and application conditions as independent.
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers cover the positions, eligibility and application questions about this Max Planck PhD vacancy. They follow the official vacancy notice.
The mobility rule and the two project timelines matter most here, so read those answers carefully. Check the vacancy page before you submit.
Are 15 positions available in this institute call?
No. QUEST has 15 candidates across its network; this call advertises two positions at MPI-NAT.
Do I need separate applications for both projects?
No. One application covers both; indicate a preference if you have one.
How long does funding last?
Both projects have 36 months of doctoral funding.
Can a PhD holder apply?
No. The call requires doctoral candidates who have not been awarded a doctoral degree.
What is the Germany mobility limit?
Normally no more than 12 months of residence or main activity in Germany during the three years before recruitment.
Is a fixed salary amount listed?
No. Remuneration follows MSCA allowances, including family support where applicable.
Conclusion
The Max Planck Electron Light PhD call offers two MSCA positions linking electron microscopy and silicon quantum photonics. Each funded appointment lasts 36 months. Eligibility also depends on the Germany mobility rule, so check your recent residence and activity before applying.
Explain how your skills fit the advertised experiments, device design or simulations, and state a project preference if useful. One application covers both positions. Send the required file through the official vacancy route by 1 November 2026.
