Full Professor of Nuclear Fusion Materials

The Faculty of Engineering at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) invites applications for a

Full Professor of Nuclear Fusion Materials

(salary group W3)

at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering. This is a full-time and permanent position to be filled by the earliest possible starting date.

We seek to appoint an internationally recognized leader in the design and characterization of new materials and coatings tailored to meet the special requirements and conditions in nuclear fusion technologies. Research at the chair should focus on developing new concepts for structural and / or functional materials to meet the diverse requirements concerning constructive, mechanical, and corrosive properties that are of relevance in fusion reactors. We expect relevant experience in the area of the interaction of high-energy radiation with materials, the typical changes materials undergo as a result, and the required characterization methods. We would also welcome a focus on sustainability, covering topics such as extending the lifespan of materials or finding ways to reuse materials or return them to the material cycle.

We are looking for candidates with experience in conducting research in an interdisciplinary setting who are interested in collaborating with other groups from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering as well as the Faculties of Sciences and Engineering to develop an internationally visible research program at the intersection of their research interests and the FAU key research priority of “New materials and processes”.

The advertised position is in the context of the Bavarian government’s Master Plan for Nuclear Fusion dated February 11, 2025. The successful candidate is expected to promote the objectives of the Master Plan in their research and teaching and to become actively involved in the new Bavarian Fusion Cluster (BFC).

The professor will be expected to teach in the degree programs currently offered at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering as well as in the degree programs in energy technology and mechanical engineering.

The successful candidate will have an outstanding track record in research and teaching. They are required to have a university degree and a doctoral degree in a relevant discipline and additional postdoctoral qualifications (either a habilitation or equivalent academic qualifications). These qualifications may also have been achieved in a non-university context or through a junior faculty position (for example, as assistant professor).

The successful candidate is expected to carry out administrative duties and take a proactive approach to raising third-party funding. FAU pursues a policy of intense student mentoring and expects its teaching staff to be present during lecture periods.

In its pursuit of academic excellence, FAU is committed to equality of opportunity and to a proactive and inclusive approach, which supports and encourages all underrepresented groups, promotes an inclusive culture, and values diversity. FAU is a family-friendly employer and responsive to the needs of dual career couples.