Research Associate for the Project “VALPROTOX” Protein-based functional materials § 28 Subsection 3

Research Associate for the Project “VALPROTOX” Protein-based functional materials § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Physical Chemistry

Salary level

Start date01.10.2026 pending approval of external funding, fixed until 30.09.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline16.08.2026

Scope of workfull-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.

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in the field of biohybrid materials.

Our research focuses on the development of functional protein-based materials and the investigation of their synthesis, processing, and performance, for example, for advanced biomedical and biotechnological applications.

In this position, you will be responsible for the structural characterization of protein-based adsorber materials, combining electron microscopy, X-ray scattering, and porosity analysis to link material architecture to adsorption performance.

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

Experimental Research

• perform comprehensive structural characterization of protein-based adsorber materials using electron microscopy (TEM, SEM, cryo-EM), X-ray scattering (SAXS), and adsorption-based surface area and pore analysis
• investigate the internal and external morphology, hierarchical organization, and pore architecture of engineered protein-based materials
• support the optimization and validation of material synthesis by providing structural feedback on the influence of preparation parameters

Data Analysis and Structural Interpretation

• analyze and interpret data from complementary characterization techniques using appropriate methods and software
• establish relationships between synthesis conditions, structural features, and functional performance by integrating structural data with results from functional assays
• maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, measurement conditions, and research findings

Method Development

• develop and optimize workflows for the structural characterization of complex protein-based materials
• improve and standardize characterization protocols to enhance reproducibility, data quality, and comparability between different material variants

Collaboration and Communication

• work collaboratively with researchers within the group and with interdisciplinary project partners
• provide structural insights to colleagues responsible for material synthesis and functional evaluation and support the integration of results across project work packages
• present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences
• prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to project reporting, intellectual property (IP) protection, and research data management

Mentoring

• mentor bachelor's, master's, and PhD students and support junior researchers in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific interpretation

Compliance and Safety

• ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards and actively participate in laboratory safety training

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

Candidates are required to have:

• PhD degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, Nanoscience, or a closely related field
• proven extensive research experience in nanomaterials, biomolecular materials, protein chemistry, or related areas
• strong expertise in the structural characterization of advanced materials using electron microscopy and/or scattering techniques
• practical experience with electron microscopy methods, such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and/or scanning electron microscopy (SEM), is highly desirable
• experience with complementary characterization methods for materials analysis (e.g., X-ray-based methods, surface or porosity analysis) is advantageous
• ability to independently design, perform, and interpret complex characterization experiments
• strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to establish structure-property relationships from multidisciplinary datasets
• experience in developing and optimizing experimental workflows and characterization protocols
• excellent organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate scientific documentation
• a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, ideally high-impact journals, is desirable
• good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary research team and to mentor junior researchers
• 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.

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 ).