Scientist (f/m/x) Redox hydrogel supported photobioanode in Biophotovoltaics

The UFZ

The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) with its 1,100 employees has gained an excellent reputation as an international competence centre for environmental sciences. We are part of the largest scientific organisation in Germany, the Helmholtz association. Our mission: Our research seeks to find a balance between social development and the long-term protection of our natural resources.

The job

The working group Biophotovoltaics of the Department of Microbial Biotechnology is looking for a highly-motivated scientist (f/m/x) to join an international exploratory interdisciplinary synergy project funded by Novo Nordisk Foundation. The project aims to develop a novel photo-biohybrid concept for ammonia production by coupling a natural oxygenic photosystem to the enzyme nitrogenase. The core task of the scientist (f/m/x) is, by closely working with the other two project partners, to develop and optimize a redox hydrogel-cyanobacteria photobioanode to efficiently supply photosynthetic electrons to drive the cathodic nitrogen fixation.The position can start from 01.09.2026, or later on individual case.

Your tasks

The core tasks of the scientist include but not limited to:

• develop redox hydrogel-cyanobacteria photoanode
• apply holistic e.g. microscopy-based analytics to characterize the bio-hydrogel interface electron transfer kinetics
• engineer the bio-hydrogel interface using e.g. click chemistry to improve the electron transfer kinetics
• develop a prototype system that combines photobioanode and enzymatic cathode to demonstrate the photobioammonium production concept
• closely communicate with other two project partners and high initiative to drive the progress of the project
• publish in high reputation journal and present in leading scientific conferences

Please include a half-page research concept and methodology to address the core scientific tasks listed above as part of your cover letter. Only applications with these information will be considered for next steps.

We offer

• The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
• The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a variety of perspectives
• Firstclass integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
• Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
• Flexible working hours and a wide range of options for balancing work and care responsibilities through our family office
• Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the 'International Office'
• Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Germany Job Ticket
• A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity

Your profile

• PhD in bioorganic chemistry, molecular biotechnology, biochemical engineering or related area
• essential experience with redox hydrogel, its design and characterzation, and its interface with living system
• essential experience with microscopy, spectroscopy techniques
• bonus experience with pure microbial culture, and/or chemical modification using e.g. click chemistry
• excellent communication and team-working skills to fit with the team culture
• high self-motivation and initiatives, and the capability to lead an interdisciplinary project
• proficient in English speaking and writing, with good publication records