PhD on Ultracold Electron Source Development for Protein Crystallography
Develop a pioneering pulsed ultracold electron source for time-resolved protein crystallography.
Best for:Best for physics or engineering master's graduates with a strong background in optics, vacuum systems, or cold atoms seeking a cutting-edge experimental PhD.
Overview
Eindhoven University of Technology is offering a four-year PhD position focused on building an innovative pulsed electron source using photo-ionization of laser-cooled atoms. Operating within the European Research Council-funded project "Cool T-ReX" and the Coherence and Quantum Technology group, the successful candidate will work to achieve unprecedented transverse bunch brightness. The research aims to enable laboratory-scale time-resolved protein crystallography with electrons rather than large-scale X-ray facilities. Responsibilities include designing and constructing the instrument, collaborating with international research partners, and dedicating up to 15 percent of annual time to teaching duties.
What you'll do
- Design and construct an advanced pulsed electron source based on photo-ionization of laser-cooled atoms.
- Optimize transverse bunch brightness to reach record-low transverse temperatures and high transverse coherence.
- Collaborate with leading international research groups to test the instrument on photo-active proteins.
- Manage project workflows, organize experimental workloads, and contribute to scientific publications.
- Participate in departmental teaching and educational activities for 10 to 15 percent of the employment period.
- Work closely with a multidisciplinary team including technicians, postdoctoral researchers, and fellow doctoral students.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc in Applied Physics, Engineering Physics, Mechatronics with a strong physics component, or similar
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 level spoken and written proficiency
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated ability to work in a team and communicate effectively across disciplines
- Strong initiative and capacity to organize independent workloads
- Proven background or affinity in mechanical and optical design
- Experience with complex optical setups
- Familiarity with charged particle optics or cold atoms
- Experience with high vacuum or high voltage systems
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-21 · open until filled
Applicants must submit their application online through the university portal using the apply button. The submission must include a detailed curriculum vitae with a publication list and contact details for three references, alongside a motivation cover letter. Applications sent via email or post will not be considered.
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- Contact information of three references
Contact
Julius Huijts· Assistant Professor
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