Optical excitations in organic and inorganic semiconductors

Semiconductor materials are the cornerstone of modern electronic and photonic technology and central to sustainable economic growth. So far, the functions of semiconductors are mainly defined by chemical and physical properties of their components, and organic and inorganic semiconductors are treated as separate research areas. We want to overcome the divide in material systems and tailor the optoelectronic properties by different means.

Together with the University of Melbourne and Monash University, the University of Bayreuth has established an International Research Training Group in the field of semiconductor research. The graduate school started in spring 2023 and is funded by the German Science Foundation DFG (IRTG 2818/project number 464648486).

Our Focus
How can we tailor the optoelectronic properties of semiconductors, notably the nature of their photoexcitations, by employing external stimuli such as adjusting the local environment or using local fields?
Double degree
A central element in our program is the extended research stay abroad. You spend 6 to 12 months at the partner institutions and obtain a double degree, i.e., a PhD from both universities.
Open PhD Projects
Have a look at the PhD research topics on offer in the areas of experimental and theoretical physics, synthetic, physical and computational chemistry, electrical engineering, and related areas.

Talks & Tutorials

Dr. Andreas Erhardt

University of Oxford

Talk 19th July, 2026
Alumni Career Talk

Prof. Dr. Tobias Brixner

University of Würzburg

Talk 8th June, 2026, 12:30 p.m.
Isolating Multi-Particle Correlations in Time and Space

Tutorial 8th June, 10 a.m.
Introduction to 2D Electronic Spectroscopy


PDF: Discover more

News

Scientific Synergy and Future Visions: The Annual OPTEXC Retreat at Kloster Banz
31. Juli 2026 | News

Scientific Synergy and Future Visions: The Annual OPTEXC Retreat at Kloster Banz From project progress to a strong DFG follow-up proposal: The international OPTEXC community gathered at the historic Kloster Banz monastery to deepen collaboration and shape the future of organic electronics. On Sunday, July 19, 2026, the International Research Training Group OPTEXC kicked off […]

Another Milestone for OPTEXC: Successful PhD Defense in our International Network
31. Juli 2026 | News

Another Milestone for OPTEXC: Successful PhD Defense in our International Network Last Thursday marked another proud milestone for the International Research Training Group OPTEXC. Daniel Kroh successfully defended his PhD thesis on „Multiple aggregate formation in organic donor and acceptor molecules“. His research addresses key questions at the absolute heart of next-generation organic electronics. The […]

Technical Tutorial Series: Peer-to-Peer Training at OPTEXCLab Tour at EP III
25. Juni 2026 | News

Technical Tutorial Series: Peer-to-Peer Training at OPTEXC: Beyond frequent talks and workshops by established PIs, training experts, or industry veterans, OPTEXC doctoral researchers regularly engage in peer-to-peer training in our ongoing Technical Tutorial Series. Hosted by the MC I (Brendel) group, this initiative is organized by PhD researchers for PhD researchers to promote collaborative learning […]