Assistant with a PhD in Experimental Physics (m/f/d)

This position is open to candidates aiming to pursue a research and academic career at the University of Nova Gorica (UNG, Slovenia). We offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic international environment, supported by state-of-the-art research equipment and strong involvement in leading European research infrastructures.
Applications are invited for a post-doctoral position in experimental physics at the Laboratory of Quantum Optics (LKO) at UNG. The research program is centered on the use of high-order harmonic generation (HHG)–based XUV radiation driven by high-power femtosecond lasers for time-resolved studies of matter.
A central research activity concerns the investigation of static and ultrafast dynamical properties of magnetically ordered systems, employing laser-based magneto-optical effects such as Kerr and Faraday, combined with element-selective XUV spectroscopy. These studies aim at addressing fundamental questions in ultrafast magnetism, including spin and angular-momentum dynamics in complex magnetic materials and metal/semiconductor heterostructures.
In parallel, the project encompasses fundamental studies using HHG-driven XUV light for time-resolved molecular spectroscopy, targeting electronic structure and ultrafast dynamics in atoms and molecules, as well as the generation and characterization of broadband THz radiation and its application to ultrafast spectroscopy and material characterization. These research directions share a common experimental platform based on advanced nonlinear optics and ultrafast laser techniques.
The experimental work will be carried out on a table-top HHG beamline, producing XUV pulses with durations in the tens-of-femtoseconds range. The radiation can be tuned across the M and N absorption edges of transition metals and rare-earth elements, enabling element-specific, time-resolved measurements. The project involves the development, optimization, and characterization of complex ultrafast optical setups, including nonlinear frequency conversion, pump–probe synchronization, XUV and THz optics, and advanced detection schemes, as well as control over the spectral, temporal, and polarization properties of the generated radiation.
The research will benefit from a strong network of international collaborations, in particular with teams working at the FERMI free-electron laser at Elettra Sincrotrone Trieste (Italy). The selected candidate will be encouraged to develop and pursue an independent research line within the scope of the project.

Strong preference will be given to candidates who can demonstrate:

• To hold a PhD in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline, as well as a good command of the English language;
• Proven, hands-on experimental experience with ultrafast (femtosecond) high-power laser systems applied to the study of static and time-resolved magnetism;
• Solid expertise in table-top optical setups, including alignment and diagnostics;
• Experience with HHG-based XUV sources, pump–probe techniques, molecular spectroscopy, and/or THz generation and detection.

Please submit:

• a CV, including a detailed description of previous experimental research experience,
• a list of publications,
• proof of education,
• a letter of motivation outlining research interests and relevant technical expertise.

In accordance with their appointment, the successful candidate will also take on teaching duties within selected study programmes at the University, School of Science.

The contract will initially be concluded on a full-time basis for a fixed term of 12 months, with the possibility of extension.

Deadline for applications: 15. 4. 2026

Applications should be sent by e-mail as a single PDF file to the University of Nova Gorica Personnel Office (email: careers@ung.si) and to Prof. Giovanni De Ninno (email: giovanni.de.ninno@ung.si).

For further scientific information, please contact Prof. Giovanni De Ninno.

Contact

Nina Cotič
telefon: 05 6205 817
e-pošta: careers@ung.si

Jasna Vukmir
telefon: 05 6205 822
e-pošta: careers@ung.si