Thesis Projects in the Development of a Vacuum-Ultraviolet Frequency Comb (m/f/d)

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 75 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 32 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology, together with the cooperating Chair for Laser Technology (LLT) at RWTH Aachen University, is Europe's leading center for fundamental and contract research in the field of laser technology. In various thesis projects, we offer the opportunity to explore different topics in laser physics within the development of a vacuum-ultraviolet (VUV) frequency comb through high-harmonic generation in the Laser and Optical Systems department.

High-harmonic generation (HHG) enables the generation of coherent radiation in the VUV spectral range down to soft X-rays using infrared (IR) lasers. This makes HHG an important tool with applications in industry and fundamental research, such as VUV frequency comb spectroscopy.

As part of an international research project, we are constructing a VUV frequency comb and offering various topics for thesis projects:

Development, construction, and characterization of a laser amplifier
Investigations into lock instabilities of an enhancement resonator during resonator-enhanced HHG
Development and investigation of piezo mirrors for the length stabilization of an enhancement resonator

Be part of change

Your responsibilities include researching and documenting the state of the art
You will plan, build, and conduct experiments
Finally, you will be responsible for documenting and discussing results

What you contribute

You are studying physics or a comparable degree program
Interest in lasers, application-oriented research, and physical experiments
Independent, organized, and structured working style
Initial experience in the areas of laser and optics, electronics, programming, and computer-based data analysis is beneficial

What we offer

👥 Team Spirit: Creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and a "you" culture.
🖥 Workspace: Excellent equipment with machines and devices as well as first-class office supplies.
💪 Co-creation: Practical thesis work in an innovative environment of applied research.
🧘 Work-Life Balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.
➕ Advantages: Opportunity to benefit from exciting corporate wellness programs.
🚐 Commute: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an EV charging station, and a parking garage.

The position is limited until the completion of the thesis.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

For questions regarding this position, please feel free to contact:

Mr. Stephan Wissenberg M.Sc.

Phone: +49 241/8906-591

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 81340 Application Deadline: 01/31/2026

Job Segment: Physics, Data Analyst, Science, Research, Data

Apply now »