**In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1**

### PhD researcher (m/f/x) for machine learning enhanced infrared frequency comb spectroscopy

The chair for Experimental Physics V - Spectroscopy of Atoms and Molecules by Laser Methods at the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, Ruhr University Bochum, investigates physicochemical processes in low and atmospheric pressure plasmas. The research is focused on the development and application of advanced laser-based diagnostics from UV to THz to characterize plasmas and their interaction with surfaces. The focus is on highly sensitive laser-based diagnostics using novel lasers in the mid- and far-infrared, including cavity-enhanced spectroscopy, frequency comb spectroscopy, and THz spectroscopy. The research covers the entire spectrum from basic research to applied research and research with industrial partners and includes strong collaborations on plasma modelling. Candidates joining our team will contribute to innovative research at the forefront of plasma physics and chemistry as well as laser spectroscopy.

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD researcher to work on a project on the use of infrared frequency comb spectroscopy enhanced by machine learning to, on the one hand, support the analysis of the broadband spectra obtained and, on the other hand, relate measured spectra, corresponding plasma parameters, and relevant process control parameters. The project is a collaboration between the Ruhr University Bochum, Prof. Trieschmann of the Kiel University (CAU), both in Germany, and the company Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology, United Kingdom. The ideal candidate (m/f/x) will work with us on demonstrating the potential of machine learning enhanced infrared frequency comb spectroscopy for understanding and optimizing industrial plasma processes.

Scope: part-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 Jahre
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-04-19

**Your tasks:**

- Apply the frequency comb spectroscopy diagnostics to measure molecular species in low pressure plasmas related to industrial processes
- Develop and apply machine learning algorithms for data analysis and data-driven physics-constrained correlation mining
- To carry out detailed studies to elucidate relevant plasma-chemical processes and to identify key species in the plasma
- Determine spectroscopic parameters of plasma-relevant species
- Documentation and presentation of experimental results, including preparation of reports, publications, and contributions to group meetings and at national and international conferences.
- Involvement in national and international collaborations, research as well as industry

**Your profile:**

- Master of Science (MSc) degree in physics, chemistry or related field
- Knowledge of plasma physics or laser spectroscopy would be an asset
- Experimental experience with laser absorption spectroscopy would be an advantage
- Knowledge of programming languages and analysis software (Matlab, Python, Origin, etc.) would be an advantage.
- Highly motivated and with the drive to advance scientific research in the field of plasma diagnostics and plasma chemistry
- A structured and independent approach to work with good communication and organisational skills
- High degree of commitment and dedication, flexibility, reliability, ability to work in a team, high performance orientation and problem-solving competence
- Good command of English (written and spoken); German is helpful but not required

[https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/3ac3f6613a95111904b0ba72ca40a27c19a26a6a0?ref=AfA](https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/3ac3f6613a95111904b0ba72ca40a27c19a26a6a0?ref=AfA)