PhD Candidate on High-Order Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy in Noble-Gas Liquids / PhD Candidate on High-Order Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy in Noble-Gas Liquids

PhD Position on High-Order Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy in Noble-Gas Liquids

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

We are offering a PhD position in attosecond science and strong-field physics at the Laboratory of Physical Chemistry, ETH Zürich. The project focuses on high-order harmonic generation (HHG) in noble-gas liquids, particularly liquid helium. This research aims to explore a new regime of ultrafast electron dynamics in condensed matter and to bridge the gap between gas-phase and liquid-phase HHG. You will have the opportunity to work at the forefront of attosecond spectroscopy using state-of-the-art ultrafast laser systems and cryogenic technology. This 4-year PhD position is funded by our SNSF grant.

Project Background

High-order harmonic generation has become a cornerstone of attosecond science, enabling the observation of electron dynamics on their natural timescales. While HHG is well understood in gases and increasingly explored in solids, its extension to liquids offers intriguing opportunities to study electron scattering and delocalization properties. Noble-gas liquids, and liquid helium in particular, provide a unique platform: they combine the simplicity of atomic systems with the density of condensed matter. Their relatively long electron mean free paths offer access to a regime where strong-field physics can be studied under conditions intermediate between gases and molecular liquids. This project aims to establish HHG spectroscopy in noble liquids, investigate the role of electron scattering and coherence, and explore new phenomena such as HHG in the superfluid phase of helium.

Job Description

• Design and perform experiments on high-order harmonic generation in liquid and gas-phase targets.
• Develop and operate cryogenic liquid-jet systems for noble-gas liquids.
• Implement advanced ultrafast laser techniques (e.g., few-cycle pulses, two-colour fields, CEP stabilization).
• Analyze experimental data to extract information on electron dynamics (cut-off scaling, phase, emission times).
• Contribute to the development of new experimental methods in attosecond spectroscopy.
• Present results at international conferences and publish in high-impact journals.

Profile

• Master's degree in physics, physical chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Strong interest in ultrafast laser science, attosecond physics, or strong-field phenomena.
• Experimental skills and motivation to work on complex laboratory setups.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.
• Good communication skills in English (spoken and written).

Experience in one or more of the following areas is an advantage: ultrafast optics, nonlinear optics, HHG/strong-field physics, vacuum technology, spectroscopy, or scientific programming (Python, MATLAB).

Workplace

Join us at ETH Zürich, where you will engage in groundbreaking research at one of the world’s leading universities.

We Offer

• A fully funded PhD position at ETH Zürich, one of the world’s leading universities.
• Access to state-of-the-art ultrafast laser systems and experimental infrastructure.
• A stimulating, international research environment with strong collaborations.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and build a scientific network.
• Supervision and training in cutting-edge experimental techniques in attosecond science.
• Attractive working conditions and benefits according to ETH Zürich standards.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture an environment where the rights and dignity of all staff and students are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish. Sustainability is a core value for us, and we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

Apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• CV
• Transcripts
• A brief statement of research interests
• Contact details of referees or letters of recommendation

Further information about the Ultrafast Spectroscopy and Attosecond Group can be found on our website. Questions regarding the position should be directed to Tadas Balciunas at tadas.balciunas@phys.chem.ethz.ch (no applications).

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered. The preferred start date is in the first half of 2026.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.