Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence, BlueMat: Water-driven Materials – Energy Storage in Supercapacitors” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Inorganic and Applied Chemistry

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.11.2026, fixed until 31.10.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-10-05

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

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 Research Associate will work on the project “Energy Storage in Supercapacitors with Aqueous Electrolytes” which is part of the Research Area “Energy Materials” within the Cluster of Excellence – BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials”. Electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) are known for their rapid charging rates, high power density, and long cycle life. In this project we will develop EDLCs based on environmentally friendly materials and aqueous electrolytes. To prevent electrolyte decomposition, we will study high-concentration water-in-salt solutions and strong confinement. A combination of electrochemical studies, advanced in-situ/in-operando techniques and molecular modeling will help us to understand the hydration/dehydration processes and ion transport dynamics, which are crucial for forming and structuring the EDL. Additionally, we introduce the consideration of the role of strong confinement on the electrolyte dielectric properties and optimize the microstructure of nanoporous carbons to achieve highly energy-dense supercapacitors. The project addresses the following research questions: How does ion hydration influence the EDL structure? Is there a specific dehydration mechanism for ions? How can ion-ion intercations be tuned, and how do they affect the EDL formation? What is the impact of carbon porosity on the performance of water-in-salt electrolytes in EDLCs? Is there a correlation between the degree of carbon graphitization and EDL structure? How do the dielectric properties of water and electrolyte solutions change with strong confinement?

The Research Associate specific responsibilities include:

• synthesis of nanoporous carbons with hierarchical pore structures and different degrees of graphitization
• characterization of the materials with respect to their structure, porosity and wettability
• evaluation of various salts as potential components in aqueous electrolytes
• investigation of the electrochemical properties of these materials with respect to their usage as high-performance EDLCs
• developing and co-authoring articles for publication in scientific journals
• collaborating with other research groups in the cluster and outside
• participating in experiments at large scale synchrotron and neutron facilities
• supervising BSc and MSc students
• contributing to project administration and reporting

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

We seek an outstanding scientist with substantive expertise in the area of synthetic chemistry of nanoporous carbons and their structural characterization combined with advanced experience in electrochemical techniques to investigate the performance of EDLCs.

Candidates are required to have:

• experience
• in the synthesis of nanoporous carbons with single or hierarchical pore structures by means of soft- and/or hard-templating routes or other techniques
• in the characterization of these materials using XRD, Raman, gas physisorption, NMR, SEM, TEM, TG/DTA/MS
• in extensive electrochemical characterizations of these materials in combination with aqueous electrolytes
• sufficient command of English (both spoken and written)

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.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Michael Fröba

Location

Martin-Luther-King-Platz 6
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

247

Application deadline

2026-10-05

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.