Abbe School of Photonics – PhD/Doctoral Programme
Join a world-class photonics and quantum technology doctoral programme at one of Germany's leading optics research hubs.
Best for:Best for physics or engineering master's graduates seeking a fully funded PhD in photonics, optics, or quantum technology at a top-ranked German research institution.
Overview
The Abbe School of Photonics (ASP) at Friedrich Schiller University Jena offers a research-oriented doctoral programme in optics, photonics, and quantum technology, enrolling approximately 300 doctoral candidates. The programme provides access to some of the best-equipped photonics laboratories worldwide, intensive individual mentoring, and a curriculum covering both cutting-edge science and transferable skills. Doctoral candidates are treated as full scientists and can publish in top-tier journals such as Nature and Science. Strong partnerships with industry leaders like ZEISS, ASML, TRUMPF, SCHOTT, and JENOPTIK, as well as an international network of partner universities, offer extensive opportunities for collaboration, internships, and research stays abroad. The programme leads to a Dr rer nat or Dr Ing degree and can begin at any time.
What you'll do
- Conduct frontier research in optics, photonics, or quantum technology within a world-class laboratory environment
- Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present results at international conferences
- Complete an individually tailored curriculum of scientific and technical courses alongside transferable-skills modules
- Participate in special lectures and workshops delivered by internationally renowned guest professors
- Teach and support undergraduate students as part of professional development
- Engage in optional internships with regional industry partners such as ZEISS, ASML, TRUMPF, SCHOTT, or JENOPTIK
- Pursue optional research stays abroad through the programme's international partner network
- Write and defend a doctoral thesis in either English or German
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent qualification) in physics, optics, engineering, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD (Dr rer nat or Dr Ing)
Language: English required at a level sufficient for scientific communication; Cambridge, IELTS, or TOEFL certificates appreciated. German is NOT a prerequisite.
Instruction: English and German (supervision available in both languages; thesis may be written in either)
- Strong academic background in physics, optics, engineering, or a closely related discipline
- Sufficient English proficiency for scientific communication and coursework
- Demonstrated research aptitude at the master's level
- Applicants must hold or be about to obtain a Master's degree or equivalent in physics, optics, engineering, or a related field
- No nationality or residency restrictions mentioned
- German language knowledge is not a prerequisite for enrolment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: Rolling — check website for current openings; unsolicited applications accepted at any time · open until filled
Check the ASP website for currently advertised PhD positions and apply within the stated deadlines. Unsolicited applications are also accepted at any time through the online application portal. The programme's specialised administration will assist accepted candidates in identifying suitable funding opportunities.
- CV
- Master's degree certificate and transcripts (or proof of impending completion)
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., Cambridge, IELTS, or TOEFL certificates)
- Cover letter or motivation statement
- Letters of recommendation (if applicable)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.