Open positions at the Physics Department

  • PhD position in “Advancing X-ray metrology for the development and validation of novel nano- and energy- materials”

    The Atomic and X-ray Physics (AXP) Group in the Department of Physics offers a PhD position (3 years) in the field of X-ray spectroscopy. The research project is aimed at advancing reliable X-ray analysis of technologically relevant elements through the determination of atomic fundamental parameters (FPs) using complementary X-ray spectrometry methods, especially X-ray emission and absorption spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence analysis. The planned work will be performed at the AXP laboratory and includes research visits to the BESSY II Light Source, Germany.


    The objective is to precisely and quantitatively determine different fundamental parameters using various high-resolution X-ray spectroscopy techniques within a Swiss-German basic science project. The further development of advanced nano- and energy- materials such as batteries require reliable X-ray analytical characterizations to correlate device functionalities with the underlying chemical and physical material properties in current applied European research projects (e.g. hymetbat.inrim.it). The reliability of those characterizations strongly depends on the FP knowledge.


    Your tasks will include the following:

    • Independently planning and performing X-ray spectroscopy experiments at UNIFR and the synchrotron radiation facility BESSY II
    • Analyzing and evaluating measurement data, including developing and optimizing evaluation methods and programs and applying the developed methods to selected metrological issues
    • Participation in joint experiments and data evaluation together with the German project partner
    • Presenting and publishing your scientific research results


    Your profile: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or Diploma in Physics or related natural sciences field. You have a keen interest in experimental physics and physical modeling. You possess knowledge and experience in one of the following fields: X-ray spectroscopy, synchrotron radiation, atomic and molecular physics, material science and nanotechnology. You can advance a complex project independently and as part of a team, you have programming skills, good communication skills, and proficiency in English.


    We offer excellent working conditions and a competitive salary in the range of 50`000 CHF /year for PhD students, including pension and social costs.


    Application and inquiries: applications, including a CV and a motivation letter, should be sent by e-mail to PD Dr. habil. Joanna Hoszowska, University of Fribourg, Chemin du Musée 3, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland; e-mail: joanna.hoszowska@unifr.ch.


    We look forward to receiving your application by 6 July 2026. The position is available as soon as possible.