Shaping X-Rays: Bringing Wavefront Engineering into the Hard X-Ray Domain (ShapeX)

Spatial light modulators for visible light are an integral part of many optical designs and applications, including temporal pulse shaping, optical tweezers, and holographic data storage and display technology. For hard X-rays, however, the field of wavefront engineering is almost unexplored. This is mainly due to the short wavelength of X-rays combined with their weak interaction with matter, which poses a significant challenge to the design and technological implementation of such devices. Recent advances in additive manufacturing and laser ablation have enabled the first steps toward wavefront engineering by demonstrating the correction of imaging distortions in X-ray microscopes and the creation of X-ray vortex beams. To advance this technology, we need an iterative design framework that considers physical and technological constraints and can model thick optical elements using a multislice approach.  
The goal of this project is to build upon existing iterative phase retrieval frameworks to develop a tool for designing beam-shaping refractive elements in the domain of hard X-rays. This capability will advance microscopy applications at our large-scale facilities and open up a whole new world of possibilities with artificially shaped X-ray beams. The designed elements will be fabricated and validated at our facilities. So, this work will not only remain theoretical.

Requirements:

• Master's degree or equivalent qualifications in physics, computer science, mathematics, or related fields
• background in scientific computing
• programming experience, Python preferred
• good communication skills in English/German
• team working attitude
• good problem-solving skills
• experience in either of these fields is a plus:
  • X-ray imaging
  • Fourier optics
  • inverse problem solving (tomography, phase retrieval, mathematical modeling)

Position:

• Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
• 75% EGR. 13 (TVöD) position for three years

At DESY, gender equality is an important aspect. To support work-life balance, we offer flexible working hours, variable part-time, job-sharing models, and participation in mobile work (up to 50%).

DESY promotes equal opportunities and diversity. The professional development of women is very important to us. Therefore, we strongly encourage women to apply for the vacant position.

Applications from severely disabled persons will be given preference if they are equally qualified (sbv.desy.de).