Research Associate quality assurance/product assurance

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz; Deutschland; Vor Ort; EUR 50.000 - 70.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research university in Germany is seeking a Quantum Mechanics Researcher for a full-time position. The successful candidate will perform risk management for optical systems, generate quality assurance documentation and work closely on laser systems for a NASA-related project. Required qualifications include a degree in physics or aerospace engineering and strong communication skills in English. Flexible work hours and professional development opportunities are offered in a supportive environment.

Leistungen

Flexible working hours

30 days' vacation

Company pension scheme

Homeoffice opportunities

Qualifikationen

• Scientific university degree in physics or aerospace engineering required.
• Experience in quality assurance in aerospace is desirable.
• Proven ability to work against industry standards is advantageous.

Aufgaben

• Perform risk and reliability management for the optical system.
• Generate quality assurance documentation for the project.
• Inspect and verify flight hardware according to standards.

Kenntnisse

Quality assurance

Communication skills in English

Team player

Ausbildung

Scientific university degree in physics or aerospace engineering

Doctorate relevant to the position

Tools

Experience with lasers

Experience in space projects

Jobbeschreibung

Organisation/Company Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
Research Field Physics » Quantum mechanics
Position: Quantum mechanics Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Positions Postdoc Positions
Country: Germany
Application Deadline: 9 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin)
Type of Contract: Permanent
Job Status: Full-time
Hours Per Week: 39
Offer Starting Date: 1 Jan 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by an EU programme
Reference Number: J266-2025
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is one of the largest universities in Germany. Thanks to its location in the Rhine-Main science region, the university can unfold to its full potential and showcase its innovative power and dynamism. Its status as a comprehensive university allows for multidisciplinary learning and teaching and has great potential for internationally renowned, interdisciplinary research. Almost all of its institutes are located on a single campus close to the Mainz city center – creating a lively academic culture for researchers, teaching staff, and students from every continent.

In our research group Experimental Quantum Optics and Quantum Information, we investigate various scientific questions in the field of quantum physics using cold, neutral atoms. This includes experiments on long-range magnetic interactions, experiments to test Einstein's equivalence principle, and other applications of quantum sensor technology.

In the BECCAL project, in which this position is located, we are collaborating with various German universities and research institutions, as well as NASA to develop an experiment for the generation and investigation of quantum gases on board the International Space Station.

• Collaboration in research on the development of laser systems for the International Space Station as part of the BECCAL project

Responsibilities

• Perform risk and reliability management for the optical splitting and distribution system for the BECCAL payload
• Generate and maintain quality assurance (QA) and product assurance (PA) documentation to support the project
• Participate and support in material, part, and process assurance
• Define and coordinate inspections, verifications and qualifications of flight hardware according to the relevant ECSS standards
• Examine and document the status of the laboratories with respect to ESD and cleanliness

In addition to the general requirements according to public services law, applicants must meet the recruitment requirements stipulated in § 57 of the Hochschulgesetz of Rhineland‑Palatinate.

Qualifications

• Scientific university degree in physics, aerospace engineering, or related fields (master level)
• A doctorate relevant to the position is an advantage
• Experience in quality/ product assurance in aerospace or similar desirable
• Interest in and understanding of the role and tasks of quality assurance
• Proven experience to work, verify and inspect against an industry standard is an advantage (Preferred space. However also other fields like defence, medical, automotive or aerospace could also be relevant.)
• Experience in space projects and the implementation of ECSS is an asset
• Preferably experience in working with lasers, optics, or cold atoms
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Good German language skills are an advantage
• Ability to work transparent, structured, and forward‑looking as well as be a key team player

Additional Information

• A wide range of offers for the development of your talents and perspectives
• Secure and transparent remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement of the federal states as well as additional benefits such as an annual special payment and company pension scheme
• Flexible working hours, 30 days' vacation and fair rules for balancing work and family life
• Homeoffice – proportionate opportunity for mobile working
• We believe in success through a motivating and appreciative culture, equal opportunities and diversity. That is why we promote open exchange, respectful interaction and competent leadership.
• Located close to the city centre of Mainz, the campus is easily accessible by all means of transport and with our job ticket you have a lively and culturally diverse city within easy reach
• Collaboration in a dynamic international team with diverse, varied and responsible tasks
• Strong support for your own academic career
• Many additional personal development opportunities

The position is paid according to EG 13 TV‑L and to be filled as soon as possible. The position is temporary for a fixed term until 29.02.2028. An extension of the position is intended.

As the work involves collaboration with NASA and involves working on export‑controlled hardware, only applicants with nationalities from country group A5 according to Annex 1 of the license exceptions of the Bureau of Industry and Security of the U.S. Department of Commerce can be considered.

JGU is diverse and welcomes qualified applications from people with varied backgrounds.

We aim to increase the number of women in the field of research and teaching and therefore encourage female researchers to apply.

People with severe disabilities and people with disabilities who are treated equally in accordance with Section 2 (3) SGB IX will be given preferential consideration if they are suitable.

Selection process

Are you ready for a new challenge and interested in this varied and responsible position? Then submit your complete application (cover letter, CV, relevant certificates, with German recognition if applicable) by 1/9/2026, via the „ Apply now “ button.