InstitutionCluster of Excellence "CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter" (photon and nanosciences)

Salary levelEGR. 13 TV-L

Start date01.04.2026, fixed for a period of three years. (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline02.03.2026

Scope of workpart-time

Weekly hours75 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Research associates will be expected primarily to teach and conduct research. The research associate will also have the opportunity to pursue further academic qualifications, in particular a doctoral dissertation. At least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the research associate’s own academic work.

Teaching duties currently comprise 3.0 teaching hours per week. The Research Associate candidate will develop innovative synthetic methodologies to produce high-quality thin films and devices, with an emphasis on uncovering emergent properties at the nanoscale. The research will involve synthesizing and optimizing these 2D material-based heterostructures, complemented by studies to evaluate their photo-electro-catalytic behaviour. Additionally, the candidate will investigate alternative materials and fabrication conditions to enhance their functional properties.

A key aspect of the work will include designing, proposing, and executing experiments utilizing large-scale X-ray facilities such as synchrotrons, XFELs, and other advanced characterization methods. These experiments aim to study operando their structure-function relationships. The candidate will work independently while collaborating closely with group members and external facilities.

Specific responsibilities include:

• synthesis and characterization of 2D materials and thin films, with focus on TMN
• jointly with the engineer in the group plan, set up and test of PLD setup
• preparing and conducting experiments at synchrotron facilities, characterizing samples with laboratory tools
• participating in time-resolved experiments, including sample preparation and data analysis

This research aims to advance the materials development of TMN, contributing to the development of efficient, tunable materials for energy conversion and environmental technologies.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in nanoscience, materials science or engineering, physics, chemistry or a related field. Students with interdisciplinary and international experience are highly encouraged to apply.

We are seeking highly motivated candidates with a strong interest in nanoscience and materials research. A proven, strong background in solid-state physics or chemistry is preferred.

Prior experience with synthesis of nanomaterials (PLD, colloidal synthesis) and their characterization (AFM; SEM, TEM, PXRD) is highly preferred.

A strong preference will be given to candidates with experience in X-ray spectroscopic or scattering methods (synchrotron/XFEL, pump-probe) and a solid understanding of data analysis and interpretation.

Hands-on experience with other laboratory techniques (UV-VIS, FTIR, TGA,) are assets.

Excellent communication skills are essential. Fluency in English is required, as the position involves working in an international research environment.

We offer

• Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
• Continuing education opportunities
• University pensions
• Attractive location
• Flexible working hours
• Work-life balance opportunities
• Health management, EGYM Wellpass
• Educational leave
• 30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle "Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.