Networke Distributed Neural Interfaces for Interference-Based Brain Stimulation:
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a key treatment for neurological diseases for the ageing population. However, there is a need for less invasive alternatives. The project consortium has identified spatio-temporal interference stimulation (stIS), a method using pairs of electrodes to precisely target and activate brain rhythms in therapeutic areas without the need for deep brain implantation.
With the support of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, BRAINET will develop skull fixated stimulation hubs that create a communication network for therapeutic stimulation. These hubs will use innovative magneto-electrical transducers, powered by external magnetic fields, and advanced electrodes that barely come in contact with the brain. It will also equip researchers with the skills to enhance neurotechnology.

The doctoral candidate will develop and characterise a nanoporous silicon–polypyrrole hybrid material capable of converting mechanical disturbances into electrical signals under biocompatible conditions to enable wireless mechanical-to-electrical energy transfer for implant communication. This position is suitable for technically skilled physcisists, materials scientists, bio-engineers, or any researcher comfortable working with smart materials, magnetic actuation, energy transfer, and experimental validation in biomedical settings.

Doctoral Candidate (f/m/d)

funded within the scheme of this MSCA Doctoral Networks (DN).
BRAINET (www.brainet-dn.eu) has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation program under the grant agreement The advertised position will be one of 14 throughout Europe.

Institute Institute for Remuneration The project is fully funded by the Marie Skłodowska Curie Action Doctoral Network BRAINET (doi://10.3030/101225775). The monthly gross salary will comprise a living allowance (ca €4000/month corrected with the country factor of the recruiting institution (before taxes and including employer contribution), mobility allowance (ca €710/month) and if applicable a family allowance (ca €495/month). The family allowance will be implemented if the doctoral candidate has or acquires family obligations (i.e. marriage or relationship with equivalent status to a marriage recognised by the legislation of the country or region where this relationship was formalised or dependent children who are actually being maintained by the researcher) during the action duration. Please note: National and institutional taxes, and social contributions apply to all DC fellowships and will be deducted from the allowances. The provided amount is not conclusive and will be defined prior the recruitment starting. ID: 37925WMSCAM2 Start of employment July 1st 2026 Application deadline February 28th 2026 - 12h Scope full time, fixed term until June 30th 2029

We at the Institute for Materials and X-Ray Physics conduct fundamental research in condensed matter physics and novel functional materials. We experimentally explore the multi-scale interplay of structure, dynamics and function of matter, benefiting from the vibrant and inspiring natural, materials and X-ray science environment of the Hamburg metropolitan area, including the Hamburg University, the Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon and the Deutsche Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY. Our Institute for Materials and X-Ray Physics (M-2) at the Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH) is linked to DESY via a joint research group for high-resolution X-ray analytics of materials.

YOUR TASKS

• Electrochemical synthesis of mesoporous solids, in particular silicon
• Functionalization of mesoporous silicon with electrically conductive polymers
• Functionalization of porous solids with mechanical actuator materials
• Characterization of mechanical-to-electrical energy conversion charactristics
• Coordination of implant integration with other projects of the doctoral network

YOUR PROFILE

Requirements

• Completed scientific university studies, in particular in the subject of Materials Engineering, Biomaterial Engineering, Nanotechnology.

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Applicants must be eligible to enroll on a PhD program at Hamburg University of Technology. English is a must, German is beneficial.
• Candidates must not have resided/ worked in Germany for more than twelve months in the 36 months immediately before their date of recruitment
• Candidates from outside the EU must be eligible to obtain a visa
• Candidates are expected to travel to network partners during secondment for a typical total duration of two to three months

OUR OFFER

• a job in an interesting, friendly and appreciative working environment
• flexible and family-friendly working conditions
• possibility of mobile working
• 30 day vacation per year
• good public transport connections
• comprehensive training and further education programs
• internal offers for health promotion
• special conditions in further gyms

At the heart of TU Hamburg’s research, teaching and transfer of technology is the guiding principle of developing technology for people. The TU Hamburg sees itself in this context as a family-friendly and sustainable university with high performance and quality standards that strives for excellence in all its research fields. Interdisciplinarity, innovation, regionality and internationality are binding principles in our actions. With currently around 8.000 students, 110 professors and 1.650 employees, the TU Hamburg is characterised by short decision-making processes and close cooperation between the board, the institutes, the deans of studies, the research areas and the administration. We identify ourselves with a modern leadership culture and cultivate appreciative interaction.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Patrick Huber, Email: .

We value diversity, therefore all applications are welcome, regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion and belief, disability, sexual orientation and identity or social background.

The TUHH stands for as well as

Please send your complete application documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae in table form, proof of completed training and/or university degree, job references or certificates of employment) via the online application system.

Notice for graduates of foreign educational qualifications:
Please submit proof of all obtained university degrees and, if available, the recognition of your educational qualifications in Germany (e.g. anabin excerpts and/or acknowledgement of previous employers).