Open positition

Job advertisement
Vacancy ID: 196/2026
Closing date: 15 August 2026

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 Institute for Theoretical Physics seeks to fill the position of a 

Doctoral student / scientific assistant in physics – Quantum Field Theory

commencing on 15 October 2026

We offer a part-time position (50%, 20 hours per week), for three years, until 14 October 2029.

You will work on current research topics in theoretical physics and contribute to the advancement of Quantum Field Theory. You will work in a team and discuss regularly with colleagues in different areas of physics and mathematics.

Your responsibilities:
• Research in theoretical physics
• Work on scientific publications
• Teaching in theoretical physics
• Support faculty teaching in theoretical physics
• Work on your own scientific qualification project, the doctorate

Your profile
• University degree with a master’s degree in physics
• Profound knowledge in physics and mathematics
• Ideally, you also have some expertise in programming

Are you hesitating because you don't meet one or some of our requirements? Please do not hesitate to
apply and give us a chance to get to know you.

We offer:
• Participation in diverse theoretical research projects in physics
• An interesting position at an international level and participation in international conferences
• A comprehensive further and continuing education programme and individual qualification and development measures
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs
• 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 based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale E13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications.
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The advertised position is offered as a fixed-term position for a maximum of 3 years with the goal of
academic qualification to doctor in natural sciences.
This is a part-time position with 50% of the working hours of a full-time employee (19.5 hours per week).

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 15 August 2026 using our online form.
Online applicationExternal link

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