Research Associate for the Project “DAS and seismic wave propagation modeling for structural monitoring of large research facilities” in the project SeiSmart § 28 Sub-section 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Earth System Sciences, Institute of Geophysics

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.08.2026, fixed for a period of 36 months (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-05-01

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 75 % of standard work hours per week

The position is part of the project “SeiSmart: Research on and with seismic networks in smart cities”, funded by the BWFG in the context of Hamburg State Research Funding.

The project is a collaboration between the University of Hamburg, the Helmut-Schmidt University and DESY. SeiSmart explores the potential use and benefits of seismic sensing networks using distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) in cities and research campuses for high precision experiments, structural health monitoring and scientific research and sustainability. SeiSmart research is conducted with a focus on the sensing network developed and operated by the in the Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld, aiming to support its development into a sustainable, smart Science City.

Your responsibilities

Duties primarily include research. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.

The position will be situated in the seismology group at the Institute of Geophysics of the University of Hamburg. The group specializes in ambient noise seismology and the use of innovative seismic instrumentation. Their research focuses on understanding seismic noise sources, monitoring structural changes in Earth materials and beyond. They apply advanced sensors to investigate the near subsurface and use environmental seismology to monitor environmental processes.

The successful candidate for this position can pursue a doctoral degree in Geophysics at the University of Hamburg. The research focuses on modeling seismic wave propagation and wave-structure interaction in large scientific infrastructures, such as particle accelerators and detection facilities. Responsibilities include analyzing in-situ data from an extensive DAS network to understand local seismic wave propagation effects, developing numerical models of seismic wave transmission through heterogeneous structures, and investigating how seismic wavefields couple into large infrastructures. The candidate will compare real-world seismic measurements with model predictions to validate and refine the simulations. Additionally, the project explores the potential use of DAS technology for structural health monitoring, aiming to support damage assessment and operational reliability of large scientific facilities.

The successful candidate can become a member of the School of Integrated Climate and Earth System Sciences (SICSS), which provides academic and soft skills training, as well as career planning support. They will join Hamburg WAVE initiative, and, if desired, the LIGO collaboration and the Einstein Telescope collaboration and attend international conferences.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

We welcome applications from candidates who fulfill the following criteria:

• a completed research-oriented Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g. Geophysics, Physics, Engineering); the degree must be completed at the time of recruitment
• an outstanding academic track record
• a strong background in seismic or elastic wave propagation and digital signal processing
• programming proficiency in Python or related language
• an excellent command of English, both verbal and written, with the ability to communicate effectively within an international research environment
• dedication and enthusiasm for research, combined with scientific curiosity, reliability and the capacity to teamwork in an interdisciplinary environment.
• experience with additional areas such as numerical simulation or digital signal processing are a definite advantage

Outstanding candidates will demonstrate high intrinsic motivation, a strong sense of individual responsibility, creative scientific thinking, and excellent social and teamwork skills.

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.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Celine Hadziioannou

Prof. Dr. Oliver Gerberding

Location

Bundesstraße 55
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

87

Application deadline

2026-05-01

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

• a cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position
• a CV including relevant competences, skills and publication list, if applicable
• copies of degree certificate(s) and transcripts of records for previous studies (Bachelor and/or Master); please indicate expected date of graduation if your Master’s degree is not completed
• contact information of two references

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.