25.09.11 Research Associate for the PhD Project "Light-versus electron-induces spin-state switc[...]

Computational Chemistry List, Ltd. (CCL); Hamburg; Vor Ort; EUR 45.000 - 55.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

An academic institution is seeking a Research Associate for a PhD project focusing on light-versus electron-induced spin-state switching of complexes on insulating layers. Candidates should have a strong interest in theoretical chemistry, a relevant Master's degree, and good English skills. The role involves collaboration with experimental groups and participation in conferences. This position is located at the University of Hamburg, Germany.

Leistungen

Healthcare

Paid parental leave

Paid vacation

Support to attend yearly conferences

Qualifikationen

• Strong interest in theoretical chemistry and/or nanoscience.
• Solid background in theoretical chemistry and/or condensed matter physics.
• Programming experience (Python) is welcome but not required.

Aufgaben

• Develop and validate electronic structure methodologies for spin-crossover complexes.
• Correlate spin-switching behavior with electronic-structure quantities.
• Investigate spin-crossover complexes in contact with surfaces.
• Use theoretical approaches to study switching mechanisms.
• Explore machine-learning molecular dynamics methods.
• Engage with the SPP 2491 network and participate in meetings.

Kenntnisse

Theoretical chemistry

Programming (Python)

Strong written and spoken English

Knowledge of German

Ausbildung

Master’s degree or equivalent in chemistry, nanosciences, physics, or related field

Jobbeschreibung

Overview

Research Associate for the PhD Project: "Light-versus electron-induced spin-state switching of complexes on insulating layers" — University of Hamburg, Germany. The project is part of the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Programme SPP 2491 on Interactive Spin-State Switching and involves close collaboration with experimental groups. The position is based in the Herrmann group at the Department of Chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate first-principles and semiempirical electronic structure methodologies to describe spin-crossover complexes on surfaces.
• Correlate electronic-structure quantities with spin-switching behavior and rates measured by collaborators.
• Investigate spin-crossover complexes in direct contact with surfaces, focusing on interaction with metal substrates modulated by insulating layers of varying thickness.
• Use theoretical/computational chemistry approaches in close interaction with experimental groups to study switching mechanisms.
• Explore machine-learning molecular dynamics methods as part of the project toolkit.
• Engage with the broader SPP 2491 network and participate in collaboration meetings and conferences.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in theoretical chemistry and/or nanoscience; (prospective) Master’s degree or equivalent in chemistry, nanosciences, physics, materials science, or related field.
• Solid background in theoretical chemistry and/or condensed matter physics.
• Programming experience (Python) is welcome but not required.
• Strong written and spoken English; knowledge of German is a plus.

Conditions

• Contract length: 36 months with guaranteed funding.
• Salary: TV-L E13 67% level, including healthcare, social security, paid parental leave, and paid vacation.
• Support to attend yearly conferences and regular meetings with collaboration partners.

Location

Hamburg, Germany — Hamburg’s DESY campus and the AIM: Centre for Ultrafast Imaging are part of the research environment.

How to Apply

Please apply by September 28, 2025 via the following link: University of Hamburg jobs page

Note: Please use the official application page above. Do not rely on third-party postings.