The Technical University Munich operates the high flux Neutron Source Heinz Maier-Leibnitz (FRM II) located at the science campus in Garching, Germany. The neutron source itself, its research instruments as well as the irradiation facilities provide unique possibilities for the scientific and industrial use of neutron beams.
To support the development and technical design of our elemental analysis capabilities, we invite applications for a PhD Position (m/f/x) with 30h/week.
Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis (PGAA) is an analytical technique to probe isotope composition in samples by irradiating them in neutron beams. Upon absorption, characteristic gamma radiation is emitted that is used for the quantitative determination of the emitter nuclei. Traditionally, this technique is used at continuous neutron beams.
In the framework of this PhD thesis, you will further develop the method toward the application of pulsed beams, with special emphasis on cyclic, time-dependent measurements to widen the range of application of PGAA towards isotopes with shorter half-lives.
The tasks involve the implementation, testing and characterization of a new setup at PGAA, as well as the study of a conceptual design for a pulsed PGAA instrument, based on the experiences of the cyclic activation analysis at PGAA. The PhD thesis is in close collaboration with our partners at the Laboratoire Léon Brillouin (Saclay) in France. You will be part of the group that operates the PGAA facility at FRM II.
You have a degree (Diplom, Master) in the field of physics, nuclear physics, radiochemistry or a similar. Ideally, you have first experience in gamma spectroscopy or neutron activation analysis. Experience operating complex experimental setups and data analysis tools (e.g. python programming) are an asset. You enjoy working in an international team and have good communication skills. A good command of written and spoken English is a prerequisite.
The high safety standard of our facility requires the reliability of the employees under nuclear law. Appropriate checks are carried out for this purpose.
At the FRM II there is a flexible working time model. Further advantages are the company pension scheme and, in addition to 30 days of vacation, two more days off (December 24th & 31st), as well as a supporting staff council.
As an employee of the FRM II, you can benefit from many other offers from TUM, such as
* the Language courses in 11 different languages and other TUM-internal training opportunities
* TUM childcare (subject to availability)
* optional company pension scheme (VBL)
* TUM health services
The position is remunerated according to TV-L and is limited to 3 years. Severely disabled people are given preference if they are essentially equally qualified. The TUM aims to increase the proportion of women. Applications from women are therefore expressly welcomed.