Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence ‚CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter‘- Cavity control of electron-phonon coupling in quantum materials” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Cluster of Excellence „CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter“ (photon and nanosciences)

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: as soon as possible, fixed for a period of 12 months (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-05-12

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 project aims to connect first-principles simulations of quantum materials with the engineering of photonic environments to modify and control the material’s electron-phonon couplings. Coupling the respective thermal and quantum fluctuations of the material and the optical cavity, links intrinsic quantum-material properties with the properties of optical cavities. In this way cavity materials engineering can generate novel effects such as cavity-induced piezoelectricity and similar phenomena.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

The project-specific qualifications include a strong background in cavity materials engineering, modeling of quantum materials and cavity quantum electrodynamics. Experience with ab initio quantum electrodynamical methods such as quantum-electrodynamical density-functional theory and other ab initio methodologies is beneficial.

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. Angel Rubio

Dr. Michael Ruggenthaler

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

100

Application deadline

2026-05-12

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.