Head of the Research Group “3D Photonic Integration” Full-time

Join Us In Shaping The Next Generation Of Three-Dimensional Photonic And High-Frequency Devices

Do you want to advance high-resolution 3D micro- and nanofabrication and turn it into innovative devices – with your own group, a long-term perspective and short paths to industry? Then join us in shaping the next generation of three-dimensional photonic and high-frequency devices.

Your Tasks

You will establish and lead a research group focusing on additive 3D micro- and nanofabrication. The technological focus is on high-resolution 3D printing, in particular multi-photon lithography and multi-material printing, including metallic materials. Applications cover areas of microsystems technology in which three-dimensional freeform structures play a key role, in particular photonics and integrated optics as well as millimeter-wave and THz technology. The group complements the existing expertise of the Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT) in additive nanofabrication and in optics & photonics, and makes use of the infrastructure of the Karlsruhe Center for Optics and Photonics (KCOP). The aim is to span the entire arc from fundamental research to application-oriented demonstrators of scalable devices and technology transfer to industry. Your responsibilities include:

• Building up and leading the group, and developing and implementing an independent, internationally visible research agenda.
• Providing scientific and technical advice to institute members on multi-photon lithography and multi-material printing.
• Contributing to ongoing research projects (3DMM2O, HYPERION).
• Developing new technological approaches and device concepts, including device design by electromagnetic field simulation and ray optics, experimental characterization, and the development of scalable replication techniques (nanoimprint, elastomer molding).
• Acquiring third-party funding (e.g., DFG, BMFTR, EU/EIC), building collaborations with industrial partners, technology transfer, and project management.
• Supervising doctoral researchers, postdocs and students.
• Publishing research results in leading international journals and presenting them at scientific conferences.

Your Profile

• Completed doctorate in electrical engineering, microsystems technology, physics, optics & photonics, materials science or a related field.
• Several years of post-doctoral professional experience – in academic research or industrial R&D – in micro- and nanotechnology (cleanroom, lithography, thin-film technology), ideally combined with expertise in high-resolution additive micro- and nanofabrication, as well as sound knowledge of optics & photonics and/or millimeter-wave and THz technology.
• Experience with simulation and design tools for electromagnetic field simulation (e.g., FDTD, FEM, CST) and ray optics (e.g., Zemax); knowledge of photonic-electronic assembly and packaging is an advantage.
• Experience with measurement techniques in photonics and millimeter-wave technology (vector network analysis, optical fiber coupling) and with replication techniques such as nanoimprint lithography or elastomer molding is desirable.
• Experience in acquiring third-party funding or in managing industrial R&D projects and budgets, as well as in project management.
• Ideally, a proven track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and at relevant conferences, patents, or developments transferred into products.
• Excellent written and spoken English. German language skills are an advantage.
• Drive, initiative and the ability to work independently as a scientist and to strategically plan and autonomously implement a research agenda.
• Conceptual and analytical thinking.
• Proven leadership experience with a cooperative, appreciative leadership style, as well as teaching skills.
• Strong communication skills and intercultural competence.

We Offer

• Excellent Research Conditions & State-of-the-art Infrastructure : Benefit from a unique environment that combines university and large-scale research, and gain access to state-of-the-art equipment and interdisciplinary projects. This environment enables you to conduct both basic and applied research at the highest level.
• Flexible Working Hours : Take advantage of flexible‑hours schemes, remote‑work options, and a 30‑day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work‑life balance.
• International Networking : You will work in a global network that encompasses international collaborations and English-language scientific communication. KIT promotes exchange with leading research institutions and industry partners worldwide.
• Career‑Building and Developmental Opportunities : We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing‑education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth.

Job location: Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (and Karlsruhe)

Salary: Salary category EG 14 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications.

Contract duration: permanent

Contact person in line-management: Prof. Kooschristian.koos@kit.edu

If you have general questions about the application process, please contact Bärbel Gätcke Personalservice (PSE) baerbel.gaetcke@kit.edu +49 721 608-25010

Application up to: 2026-11-15 Job posting number: 400/2026