INM - Leibniz Institute for New Materials, Saarbrücken

INM is an internationally leading centre for interdisciplinary research on (bio)hybrid materials, and their exploitation in materials-based solutions for a sustainable world with increasing digitalization and medical needs. Our research integrates materials chemistry, biological processes, physical analysis, and process engineering. We aim for leadership in the fields of opto-interactive, electro-integrative and bio-intelligent material systems. In these areas, we actively seize opportunities to transfer our scientific results into materials-driven innovation.

The engineering of (bio)hybrid materials requires in-depth characterization of their mechanical and thermal properties at different time scales and in-operando conditions. The Core Facility Mechanical and Thermal Characterization is pivotal for our institute by providing deep understanding of the mechanical response across a broad spectrum of materials, from nanocomposites to cell-laden hydrogels. New characterization methods are required for the multifunctional materials investigated at the institute, and we are looking for candidates that will contribute to their development.

We seek a highly motivated specialist as

Leader of the Core Facility - Mechanical and Thermal Materials Characterization

(f/m/d, full or part time work)

We are looking for senior candidates that can run the facility immediately or after a short orientation phase. Postdoctoral researchers with a strong track record in modern topics of the mechanical response of complex materials and aiming to develop a career profile as science support staff are also welcome to apply.

The Core Facility Mechanical and Thermal Materials Characterization provides service to the whole institute. The starting date will be by mutual agreement.

Your tasks

As a Facility Manager, you are an expert in multiple methodologies in mechanical and thermal characterization and provide a professional service to INM scientists including training, advice and guidance for their scientific work. This includes:

• Providing expert advice on planning and applying modern methodologies to mechanical/thermal characterization of materials in a variety of research projects undertaken by INM. Current methologies include rheology, tensile testing, DMA, DSC, TGA among others.
• Training and co-supervising users of the facility.
• Actively contributing to data analysis. Preserving and developing a Research Data Management Plan for the facility.
• Hands-on methods development and support in advanced materials characterization.
• Proactively expanding the methodological portfolio at the INM in alignment with the materials development and research questions at the institute.
• Contributing to current efforts in correlative characterization of materials at the institute.
• Providing day-to-day maintenance of the equipment in the facility.
• Actively engaging in the scientific exchange with the Scientific Units at INM, as well as external academic and industrial partners.
• Scientific publishing and presentation of research results in internal, national and international meetings is also expected.

You have

• PhD in materials sciences, physics, chemistry or a related discipline, with a strong focus on the physical understanding of material’s properties.
• A proven experience in material’s mechanics applied to functional materials. Additional experience in the mechanics of complex soft and biological samples would be advantageous.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects with internal and external partners.
• Fluency in English and ideally in German.

We offer

• An open, stimulating, interdisciplinary, and international research environment with excellent, state-of-the-art infrastructure.
• A cooperative environment, with plenty of opportunities to contribute to joint research projects with colleagues at INM and beyond.
• An environment that welcomes participation and supports self-driven development.
• Opportunities for professional development.
• A TV-L 100% contract according to your qualification level. The contract will initially be limited for 2 years with the opportunity for a permanent contract based on transparent performance criteria.

Interested?

We look forward to your application! Please upload your CV and motivation letter by February 28th, 2026 via our online application system: https://www.leibniz-inm.de/stellenangebote/

For further information on this position, please contact INM Scientific Director Prof. Dr. Aránzazu del Campo (aranzazu.delcampo(at)leibniz-inm.de ).

For information on the institute, please see: https://www.leibniz-inm.de/en/ and https://www.leibniz-inm.de/en/research/core-facilities/physical-analytics/

The INM practices an open and appreciative corporate culture in which the existing diversity is promoted and lived. The institute is an equal opportunity employer with a certified family-friendly policy, and it provides offers for a better work-life balance, flextime, and mobile working. We promote professional opportunities for women and strongly encourage them to apply. Severely disabled applicants with equal qualifications and aptitude will be given preferential consideration.