Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence ‚BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials:‘Development of Water-Responsive Adaptive Structures through 3D Nanoink Jet Printing” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Cluster of Excellence ‚BlueMat Water-Driven Materials’

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.04.2026, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-02-25

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 75 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

The work will involve refining the printing process, developing suitable materials, and conducting laboratory studies to evaluate water absorption, control, and the functional response of the printed structures. The candidate will also explore alternative materials, additives, or conditions to enhance the reactivity and adaptability of these systems.

The candidate is expected to work independently while collaborating closely with other members of the "BlueMat" consortium, Koziej Lab and interdisciplinary partners.

Specific responsibilities include:

• synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles and nanoinks
• optimization of the printing process and nanoink formulations to enhance stability, responsiveness and functionality of 3D printed structures
• design, planning and conducting of experiments and tests of nanostructures produced via 3D Nanoink Jet Printing
• collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to integrate the developed structures into functional prototypes and applications within the framework of the “BlueMat: Water-driven Materials”

This research aims to deepen the understanding of water-driven nanoscale adaptive structures and to develop innovative materials with potential applications in energy, environmental remediation, and smart systems.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in nanoscience, materials science or engineering, chemistry, physics, or a related field. Candidates with interdisciplinary and international experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a strong interest in nanoscience and materials research. A proven, solid background in materials chemistry and engineering is preferred.

A proven, solid background in materials chemistry and engineering is preferred.

Additionally, demonstrated experience with 3D nanoparticle inkjet printing, or other nanoparticle processing or assembly techniques (e.g., Langmuir–Blodgett), will be given strong preference.

Hands-on experience with other laboratory techniques (such as BET, rheology, UV-VIS, FTIR, TGA, AFM, etc.) and programming skills (e.g., Python, Comsol Multphysics) are considered valuable assets.

Excellent communication skills are essential. Fluency in English is required, as the position entails working within an international research environment.

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

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.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Dorota Koziej

Dr. Karim Akerma

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

25

Application deadline

2026-02-25

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.