Postdoctoral Scientist

The Helmholtz Institute Jena (HI Jena) is a joint institution of the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena and the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research GmbH in Darmstadt. The institute is mainly focused on applied and fundamental research at the borderline of high-power lasers and particle accelerators.

For the Relativistic Laser Plasma Theory group of the institute, we are looking for a

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Postdoctoral Scientist / Researcher (all genders)_**
**_in Relativistic High-Intensity Laser-Plasma Theory and Simulation_**

**_ Posting ID: 24.168-4233_**

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**About Jena: A Hub of Innovation**:
Jena, a picturesque college town in the heart of Germany, is renowned for its longstanding tradition in optics. This heritage has propelled Jena into becoming a major economic center for the optical industry and an internationally acclaimed hub for cutting-edge science and research. The city’s vibrant academic atmosphere, coupled with its rich cultural scene, provides an ideal environment for scientific innovation and collaboration.

**Helmholtz Institute Jena: Pioneering High-Field Science**:
**State-of-the-art Facilities**:
At HI Jena, we pride ourselves on our world-class high-power laser systems, including JETi200, a high-intensity, ultra-short pulse laser system, and Polaris, one of the world’s most powerful fully diode-pumped laser systems. These advanced systems enable us to generate ultra-bright light pulses with unprecedented intensities and field strengths. Such capabilities are crucial for conducting high-intensity plasma physics experiments and exploring new frontiers in high-field science. Additionally, a new target area will soon become operational, allowing combined experiments with both lasers at ultra-precise timing. This unique setup will enable cutting-edge research, such as radiation reaction experiments, further advancing our exploration of extreme light-matter interactions.

**Research Focus: Theoretical Explorations in High-Field Science**:
As a theoretical postdoctoral researcher, you will be at the heart of our high-field science investigations. Your work will involve:

- Developing theoretical and phenomenological models for laser-plasma based particle acceleration
- Simulating X-ray and gamma-ray radiation generation processes in high-intensity laser-plasma interactions
- Investigating attosecond physics phenomena through advanced computational techniques.

A particular emphasis of your research will be on quantum processes occurring in extreme electromagnetic fields, such as electron-positron pair production in strong fields, as well as higher-order processes, spin
- and polarization phenomena or radiation reaction. Your theoretical work and simulations will directly support and guide our experimental team, fostering a synergistic approach to pushing the boundaries of high-field science.

**Bridging Theory and Experiment**:
In this role, you will work closely with our experimental team, creating a vital link between theoretical predictions and laboratory observations. This collaborative environment will allow you to:

- develop and refine theoretical models based on experimental insights
- design and conduct numerical simulations to guide experimental setups
- analyze and interpret experimental data through the lens of advanced theoretical frameworks
- contribute to the planning and optimization of high-field experiments.

Join us in this exciting journey to unravel the mysteries of high-field science, where theory and experiment converge to explore the extremes of light-matter interactions. Your contributions will be crucial in advancing our knowledge and potentially uncovering new phenomena in the realm of high-field physics.

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**Your skills and attributes for success**:

- PhD (awarded or near completion) in Theoretical Physics or a related field, preferably with a thesis in high-field science
- previous research experience in one or more areas such as relativistic laser-plasma physics, laser-plasma based particle acceleration, laser-driven X-ray or gamma-ray sources, radiation reaction, or quantum field theory in strong external fields
- solid understanding of theoretical concepts and numerical methods used in high-field science, including relevant programming skills and experience with high-performance computing
- demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality research results in an academic context, evidenced by peer-reviewed journal publications and presentations at international conferences
- capability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment, exhibiting a high degree of initiative and demonstrating a proactive and flexible approach to research
- excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with proficiency in German being advantageous
- enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research and a keen interest in staying abreast of the latest developments in high-field science and related areas.

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**As a valued member of our Team you can