Reference No.: PS 2022/9
The X-ray microscopy department at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin is developing novel X-ray imaging methods to exploit the unique interactions of X-rays with matter. We operate a state-of-the-art high-resolution transmission X-ray microscope (TXM) in the soft and tender X-ray energy range for nano-tomography of cryogenic samples from the field of life sciences and for material analysis in the context of spectromicroscopic investigations. In addition, we will very soon install a worldwide unique “slice-and-view” cryo X-ray microscope, which will enable the 3D imaging of samples with an isotropic resolution of < 10 nm for applications in biological and material analysis research for the first time. To realize this new concept, high-resolution imaging using a specially adapted cryo scanning X-ray microscope (SXM) is combined with the possibility to remove thin layers of the sample surface using a focused ion beam (FIB). For the first time, the photoelectrons generated by the X-rays in the sample surface are used as imaging signal. As a result, compared to conventional X-ray microscopic tomography, the imaging contrast is increased, and the radiation dose required for imaging is reduced.
As part of a PhD project at our centre you will get the chance to conduct first experiments at the new FIB-SXM with specific, scientific questions from materials and life sciences and to develop the required workflows for sample preparation, data acquisition and data analysis. In addition, you will use cryo-fluorescence light microscopy and X-ray fluorescence as complementary imaging methods to enable correlative studies.
Your Tasks
- You develop and execute the first in-house and user experiments with the novel and unique “slice-and-view” X-ray microscope at the BESSY II storage ring (FIB-SXM)
- You develop workflows for sample preparation, data acquisition, and data analysis for the new FIB-SXM instrument at the U41-PGM1 beamline
- You acquire and evaluate correlative imaging data using X-ray fluorescence and light microscopy
Your Profile
- In-depth expertise in the field of optics and microscopic methods
- Desirable: Knowledge of wave optics, synchrotron radiation, vacuum technology and experience in handling cryogenic components
- Interest in independent, experimental work in the field of high-resolution 3D imaging processes
- Desirable: Programming knowledge
- Very good knowledge of spoken and written English
- Distinctive ability to work in a team
Your Benefits at HZB
- A job at one of the 18 Helmholtz centre
- Work in the research environment of the science metropolis Berlin
- The opportunity to contribute together with researchers from all around the world to the development of renewable energies, energy stores and next-gen technologies for a climate-friendly future
- A Graduate Center that supports you in any questions regarding your doctorate
- Work/life balance
- Flexible work hours with flexitime
- 39-hour week
- 30 days paid leave
- Mobile working on up to three days/week
- Comprehensive counselling services for family and career
- Health management and company sports programmes
- Financial support for public transport (Jobticket)
- Continuing education opportunities
- And a team that looks forward to meeting you!
Fixed term contract for 36 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).
How to apply
We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by 07.08.2022. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by email or by mail in the application process.
We strive to increase the proportion of female employees and are therefore particularly pleased to receive applications from women. Disabled applicants with equal aptitude are given preference.For German version, please click on the following link: German Version.