PhD Student - Ultrafast dynamics of competing orders in quantum materials (Open)

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our research team investigating the ultrafast dynamics of competing electronic, magnetic, and structural orders in quantum materials. The project aims to uncover how interactions between charge density waves, magnetism, superconductivity, and topological electronic states evolve on femtosecond timescales and how these emergent phases can be manipulated far from equilibrium.

Recent advances in ultrafast laser techniques and X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) have enabled direct observation of phase transitions occurring on timescales comparable to fundamental electronic and lattice interactions. The successful candidate will use state-of-the-art time-resolved spectroscopies to explore nonequilibrium phenomena in strongly correlated and topological materials, including kagome metals, transition-metal dichalcogenides, and frustrated magnetic systems.

The PhD project will focus on:

• Investigating the interplay between competing quantum phases, including charge density waves, magnetic order, superconductivity, and topological electronic states.
• Understanding how ultrafast optical excitation modifies electronic structure and collective excitations.
• Identifying transient states that do not exist under equilibrium conditions.
• Exploring pathways for controlling phase transitions using light, strain, or external stimuli.
• Connecting experimental observations with theoretical models describing nonequilibrium quantum matter.

The candidate will receive training in advanced experimental methods, including:

• Ultrafast pump-probe spectroscopy.
• Time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (trARPES).
• Resonant soft X-ray scattering.
• Ultrafast electron and X-ray diffraction.
• Synchrotron and free-electron laser experiments at leading international facilities.
• Data analysis and numerical modeling of nonequilibrium phenomena.

What We Offer:

• A fully funded PhD position in a vibrant research environment.
• Training in state-of-the-art ultrafast spectroscopy techniques.
• Access to leading international research facilities.
• Opportunities for international collaboration and mobility.
• Participation in cutting-edge research at the frontier of condensed matter physics and quantum materials.

The successful candidate will contribute to advancing our understanding of nonequilibrium quantum matter and the mechanisms governing emergent phases in complex materials.

Applicants should possess:

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Materials Science, Nanoscience, or a related field.
• Strong background in condensed matter physics and quantum materials.
• Interest in experimental research and advanced spectroscopy techniques.
• Experience with data analysis, scientific programming, or laboratory work is desirable.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work both independently and within a collaborative team.

Previous experience in spectroscopy, magnetism, superconductivity, quantum materials, or ultrafast science will be considered an advantage but is not required.

• Contract duration: 1 year (possibility to extend up to 3 years)
• Estimated annual gross salary: Salary is commensurate with qualifications and consistent with our pay scales
• Target start date: 2026/09/01

We provide a highly stimulating research environment, and unique professional career development opportunities.

We offer and promote a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applicants regardless of age, disability, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or gender identity.

DIPC is a research center whose mission is to perform and catalyze cutting-edge research in physics and related disciplines, as well as to convey scientific culture to society. Located in Donostia / San Sebastian (Basque Country, Spain), DIPC was born from a strategic alliance of both public institutions and private companies. Since 2008 DIPC is a 'Basque Excellence Research Center' (BERC) recognized by the Basque Government's Department of Education. In 2019, DIPC was also recognized as a "Severo Ochoa" Excellence Center by the Spanish Research Agency.

The student will work in an international and interdisciplinary environment with strong collaborations between experimentalists and theorists. The project will involve access to world-leading large-scale research infrastructures, including synchrotron radiation sources and X-ray free-electron lasers across Europe and internationally.

The PhD candidate will have opportunities to participate in international conferences, workshops, beamtime campaigns, and collaborative research visits.

Interested candidates should submit an updated CV and a brief statement of interest to the following application email below. 

Reference letters are welcome but not indispensable.

The reference of the specific opening to which the candidate is applying should be stated in the subject line, and the application must be received before the application deadline.

Although candidates are welcome to contact the project supervisors to know further details about the proposed research activity, please be aware that the application will be evaluated only if it is submitted directly to the email address listed below as application email.

• Reference: 2026/28
• Application deadline: 2026/07/17
• Application email: jobs.research@dipc.org

Applications received by the deadline will be evaluated by a Committee designed by the DIPC board on the basis of the following criteria:

• CV of the candidate (60%)
• Adequacy of the candidate’s scientific background to the project (20%)
• Reference letters (10%)
• Other: Diversity in gender, race, nationality, etc. (10%)

Evaluation results will be communicated to the candidates soon after. Positions will only be filled if qualified candidates are found.

The DIPC may revoke its decision if the candidate fails to join by the appointed time, in which case the position will be awarded to the candidate with the next highest score, provided it is above 50 (out of 100).

However, the selected candidate may keep the position if, in the opinion of the Selection Committee, the candidate duly justifies the reasons why he or she cannot join before the specified deadline, and as long as the project allows it.