Job advertisement

Vacancy ID: 064/2026
Closing date: 2026-04-06

The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Faculty of Physics and Astronomy seeks to fill the position of a

Group Leader for Electron Microscopy

as soon as possible. We offer a permanent full-time position (40 hours per week).

The research of the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy (PAF) spans from solid-state physics and materials science via (nano)optics and photonics to quantum technologies. The close integration of fundamental research and innovative applications in the fields of photonics and quantum technologies makes the PAF a dynamic center for science and education. Furthermore, the PAF runs a CS-corrected JEOL ARM NEOARM 200F with EDX and EELS as well as several SEMs and FIBs. As our new and independent group leader, you will support and play a vital role in ensuring the success of coordinated research programs with the newly created core facility of the PAF.

Your responsibilities:

• Lead the core facility for electron microscopy at the PAF, including strategic planning, scientific direction, and organizational management
• Independently design and conduct advanced research projects, ensuring scientific excellence and innovation
• Supervise and mentor scientific staff and doctoral candidates, including performance evaluation and career development
• Acquire and manage external funding from public agencies and industry, including budget responsibility and reporting
• Represent the facility in national and international collaborations and scientific committees
• Develop and deliver advanced teaching and training in material science and solid-state physics

Your profile:

• Outstanding Ph.D. in material science, solid-state physics, or a closely related field
• Extensive expertise in transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with a strong record of independent research
• Proven experience in leading research groups and managing complex scientific projects
• Demonstrated success in acquiring and administering third-party funding
• Experience in academic teaching and supervision
• Strong publication record and international visibility

We offer:

• Strong support for your career with hard and soft skill courses (graduate academy)
• A secure job in the ‘City of Light’ Jena with attractive leisure and recreational offers
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (‘JUniKinder);
• University health promotion and a wide range of university sports activities;
• Remuneration is based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale E13, with the possibility of classification up to E14 depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications. The position includes a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The position is permanent and full-time (40 hours per week). In principle, the job is also suitable for part-time employment. The extent to which a part-time request can be granted, in particular with regard to the location and scope of the part-time work, will be assessed on the basis of the needs of the service.

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by April, 6nd 2026 using our online form.

For further information for applicants and the information on the collection of personal data, please refer to