Institute of Solid State Physics (IFK)

The Institute of Solid State Physics (IFK) is part of the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy (PAF) of the Friedrich Schiller University (FSU) Jena. We focus on the research of the relations between structure and properties as well as on the synthesis and modification of solids and hybrid systems. Especially, we investigate photonic nano materials, semiconductors, 2D materials, and organic materials within the different working groups. Together with the Otto Schott Institute of Material Science (OSIM) and the Institute of Condensed Matter Theory and Optics (IFTO) we form in research and teaching the pillar "Solid State Physics / Material Science" within the PAF.

Ion beam physics of nanoscale solids
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Prof. Carsten Ronning, Dr. Martin Hafermann

Image: Carsten Ronning
Surface science

Prof. Torsten Fritz, Dr. Roman Forker, Dr. Marco Grünewald

Image: Marco Grünewald
Photonic Nanomaterials

Prof. Dr. Isabelle Staude

Image: Isabelle Staude
Group of UltraFast Optical Spectroscopy

Prof. Giancarlo Soavi

Image: Giancarlo Soavi
Quantum detection
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Prof. Heidemarie Krüger (IFK / IPHT)

Image: Heidemarie Schmidt

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We mourn the loss of Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Witthuhn

We recently received the sad news that our long-time director, Prof. Wolfgang Witthuhn, passed away on February 27, 2026, at the age of 83. From 1994 to 2007, he held a professorship at our institute and significantly shaped its scientific development during this time. His internationally recognized research in the fields of nuclear solid-state physics, photovoltaics, and semiconductor defects garnered considerable attention. With Prof. Witthuhn's passing, we have lost not only an outstanding scientist and dedicated teacher, but also a humble individual and a highly valued colleague.