Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Technical B[...]

Technische Universität Hamburg; Hamburg; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 55.000; Teilzeit

Zusammenfassung

A technological university in Hamburg is seeking a part-time Research Associate to contribute to innovative projects in enzyme-driven hybrid materials. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in relevant fields, a strong background in enzyme catalysis, and the ability to work in interdisciplinary teams. This position offers opportunities for scientific qualification and a supportive work environment, with a focus on research and development in a leading research initiative.

Leistungen

Scientific qualification opportunities

Access to training workshops

Flexible working conditions

30 vacation days

Health promotion programs

Qualifikationen

• Strong background in enzyme catalysis and biocatalytic reaction engineering.
• Very good English required (B2/C1 level); German not mandatory.
• Experience in hybrid material systems and interdisciplinary collaboration is a plus.

Aufgaben

• Design and embed enzyme systems into matrices for reversible actuation.
• Implement inline spectroscopy for monitoring enzymatic reactions.
• Collaborate with partners in modeling and imaging to integrate findings.

Kenntnisse

Enzyme catalysis

Biocatalytic reaction engineering

Process analytical technologies

Teamwork

Curiosity

Ausbildung

Master’s degree or equivalent in biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, or biotechnology

Tools

FTIR

UV/Vis

NMR

Jobbeschreibung

Join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials” and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

For the Institute of Technical Biocatalysis at Hamburg University of Technology for 1 February 2026 we are looking for a Research Associate (m/f/d). The position is part time (29.25 hours a week) and fixed‑term until 31 January 2029.

The role involves conducting research within the project "Enzyme-driven hybrid materials: reversible actuation in aqueous environments" (A3.2) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. You will explore enzyme‑driven hybrid materials that enable reversible actuation in aqueous environments by integrating biocatalysts into hydrogel and nanocellulose matrices. Real‑time spectroscopic monitoring (FTIR, UV/Vis, NMR) will provide mechanistic insight, advancing BlueMat’s vision of water‑responsive, programmable materials for adaptive soft robotics, sensors, and smart interfaces.

Your Contributions

• Design and embed enzyme systems into hydrogel and nanocellulose matrices to achieve reversible pH and redox switching.
• Implement and optimize inline spectroscopy for real‑time monitoring of enzymatic reactions and material responses.
• Develop kinetic models describing enzyme‑catalysed actuation processes under confined and aqueous conditions.
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners in modeling, device integration, and imaging to integrate findings into the broader cluster program.
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public.

Your Profile

Essential qualification: Completed university studies (master’s degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, or biotechnology.

Required Knowledge and Personal Skills

• Strong background in enzyme catalysis, biocatalytic reaction engineering, and/or process analytical technologies (FTIR, UV/Vis, NMR).
• Very good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatory.
• Curiosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams.

Desired Knowledge and Personal Skills

• Experience in hybrid material systems, hydrogel or nanocellulose processing, and interdisciplinary collaboration at the interface of chemistry, biology, and materials science.
• Familiarity with kinetic modelling, chemometrics, or process control of biocatalytic systems.

Our Offer

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster.
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, German language support, mentoring, and career development.
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks.
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family‑friendly policies.
• Access to on‑campus fitness facilities and health promotion programmes.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Andreas Liese at [e-mail], or alternatively Dr. Ana Malvis Romero at [e-mail].

Inclusive excellence drives better science. We actively seek female & international researchers from all walks of life, valuing non‑linear careers and diverse perspectives across cultures, disciplines, and identities. We explicitly welcome applications from persons with severe disabilities and those with equivalent status as defined in Section 2 of the German Social Code, Book IX (SGB IX).

The Hamburg University of Technology stands for equal opportunities and appreciative and respectful cooperation.

Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, CV, degree certificates) via the online application system, quoting the vacancy ID 30325WBMV6, by 12 November 2025.