PhD Position (all genders welcome)

Uni Goettingen; Göttingen; On-site; EUR 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Göttingen invites applications for a PhD position in inorganic photochemistry within the Kitzmann Lab. The project focuses on synthesis, photo-physical characterization and photocatalytic applications of transition metal complexes with d-d excited states.

The role combines synthesis, spectroscopy and computational chemistry under close mentorship. The position starts 1 December 2026 for three years, salary TV-L 13 at 60%.

Qualifications

• M.Sc. in Chemistry or closely related field.
• Experience in inorganic/coordination chemistry preferred.
• Familiarity with NMR, UV-Vis, MS.
• Strong English communication; German a plus.

Responsibilities

• Synthesize transition metal complexes.
• Perform photo-physical characterization.
• Develop photocatalytic applications.
• Collaborate across synthesis, spectroscopy and computational chemistry.

Skills

Synthesis chemistry

Coordination chemistry

Spectroscopy

Photochemistry

English communication

Education

Master of Science in Chemistry

Tools

NMR analysis

UV-Vis spectroscopy

Mass spectrometry

Job description

The group of Prof. Dr. Winald Kitzmann at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Göttingen, is currently seeking a highly motivated candidate for a

PhD Position (all genders welcome)

salary group 13 TV-L, 60 %, i.e. 23.88 h/week.

The position is available starting the 1st of December 2026, limited to three years and located at the Institute for Inorganic Chemistry.

Research Focus

The successful candidate will work on a project focusing on the synthesis, photo-physical characterization, and photocatalytic application of transition metal complexes with d-d excited states. The project offers a unique opportunity to develop expertise across synthesis, spectroscopy, and computational chemistry within the broader field of inorganic photochemistry. The specifics of the project can be tailored to the candidate's research interests.

About the Group

The Kitzmann Lab is a newly formed research team interested in designing photoactive transition metal complexes and uncovering the mechanisms of photocatalytic reactions using time-resolved spectroscopy. We offer a stimulating environment for curiosity-driven research and close mentorship in an international academic setting at the University of Göttingen.

Your Profile

• Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Chemistry or a closely related field
• Solid background in synthetic inorganic and/or organic chemistry, ideally with experience in coordination chemistry
• Familiarity with standard analytical techniques (NMR, UV-Vis, mass spectrometry)
• Strong communication skills in English; knowledge of German is a plus
• Experience with photochemistry, time-resolved luminescence or transient absorption spectroscopy is beneficial

What We Offer

• A dynamic and supportive research environment in a young team
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities in our lab and at the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry
• Opportunities to develop a broad skill set in physical-inorganic chemistry, covering synthesis, spectroscopy and theoretical chemistry
• Possibility to gain teaching experience, e.g., through lab supervision of students
• Personalized scientific mentorship and support for career development

The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunity employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The University aims to employ a greater number of severely disabled persons. Applications from severely disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference.

Please note:

With submission of your application, you accept the processing of your applicant data in terms of data-protection law. Further information on the legal basis and data usage is provided in the https://uni-goettingen.de/GDPR

For further information about the scientific aspects of the positions, please contact Prof. Dr. Winald Kitzmann (E-Mail: [e-mail] ).