Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence BlueMat - Exploring the Role of Water[...]

Universität Hamburg; Hamburg; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 55.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A German research university in Hamburg is seeking a Research Associate to work on materials science focusing on vanadium oxide. Responsibilities include synthesis and characterization of VO₂ materials and collaboration with partners in research. Candidates should hold an M.Sc. in a relevant field, possess a strong background in microfabrication, and demonstrate excellent communication skills. This position offers reliable remuneration and opportunities for doctoral qualifications and international research exchange.

Leistungen

Reliable remuneration

Continuing education opportunities

Flexible working hours

30 days of vacation

Health management

Qualifikationen

• A university degree in a relevant field.
• Strong background in microfabrication and thin-film synthesis.
• Experience with microscopy and spectroscopy.

Aufgaben

• Synthesize VO₂ thin films via ALD.
• Characterize properties across the phase transition.
• Develop VO₂-coated membranes for controlled imbibition.

Kenntnisse

Microfabrication

3D nanoprinting

Thin-film synthesis

Microscopy

Spectroscopy

Wetting characterization

Fluent English

German proficiency

Ausbildung

M.Sc. in Nanoscience, Physics, or Materials Science

Tools

ALD processes

Jobbeschreibung

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.

The research focuses on the interaction between water and vanadium oxide (VO₂)-based materials across the insulator–metal phase transition (IMT).

Central themes are atomic layer deposition (ALD) synthesis, phase control, wettability studies, and the design of porous photonic materials.

Tasks Include

• synthesis of VO₂ thin films and nanostructures via ALD and post-deposition thermal treatment
• characterization of electrical, optical, and structural properties across the IMT
• investigation of water contact angles and surface oxidation in aqueous environments
• development of VO₂-coated anodic aluminum oxide membranes for controlled imbibition and tunable color appearance
• collaboration with BlueMat partners (C1.1, C2.1, C3.2, B3) and contribution to shared publications
• preparation of manuscripts, participation in BlueMat workshops, and adherence to FAIR data principles

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

• M.Sc. (or equivalent) in Nanoscience, Physics, or Materials Science
• strong background in microfabrication, 3D nanoprinting and modeling, or thin-film synthesis
• familiarity with ALD processes and surface functionalization advantageous, also of small glass structures (nano‑cuvettes, pipettes)
• experience with microscopy, spectroscopy, and wetting or interface characterization
• knowledge of bio‑surfaces (i.e. lipid membranes) and cultivation of bio‑materials is very desirable
• excellent communication and teamwork skills in an interdisciplinary environment
• fluent in English; German proficiency is advantageous

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
• participation in the DFG Excellence Cluster BlueMat – “Materials for a Sustainable Future”
• state‑of‑the‑art nanofabrication and ALD infrastructure at CHyN
• integration into a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment linking materials science, nanotechnology, and environmental physics
• support for doctoral qualification and international research exchange

About Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence

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.