Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence ‚CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter‘- Synthesis and characterization of cluster materials (macroscopic solids made of crystallized semiconductor clusters of defined size)” § 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 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: 2026-03-30

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 66,67 % 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.

Within our research group, the successful candidate will be responsible for:

Experimental Research:

development of new synthesis methods for the production of clusters from semiconductor materials (e.g. CdSe, CdS, PbS)
characterisation of clusters using standard methods (e.g. IR spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, MS spectroscopy, DSC, XRD) and single cluster fluorescence microscopy and spectroscopy
modification of cluster surfaces with different molecular ligands
crystallisation of clusters into macroscopic materials
characterisation of macroscopic materials using spectroscopic and microscopic methods

Data Analysis and Interpretation:

analyze experimental data using appropriate methods and software
interpret the results in the context of refining theoretical models based on the latest development in the field

Collaboration and Communication:

work collaboratively with other researchers, both within the group and in interdisciplinary teams
present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences
prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact scientific journals

Compliance and Safety:

ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards in all research activities
actively participate in safety training sessions and maintain a safe working environment

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Candidates are required to have:

master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Nanoscience or a closely related field
experience in solution-based nanoparticle synthesis
strong background in IR spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, MS spectroscopy, DSC and XRD
experience in microscopic methods, at best confocal single-particle microscopy
experience in confocal single-particle spectroscopy is an advantage
experience with the evaluation of spectroscopy measurement data, using suitable software such as Origin
excellent problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
proficiency in programming (e.g., Python) is an advantage
good communication skills and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral; knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory

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.