2 independent postdoctoral researchers (f/m/d)

The Martian Mindset Open Idea Competition The Cluster of Excellence “The Martian Mindset” at the University of Bremen invites outstanding postdoctoral researchers from all disciplines worldwide to apply for independent, full-time postdoctoral positions (up to 36 months). These positions are part of our strategic vision to pioneer new research frontiers for the Cluster and support exceptionally qualified postdoctoral researchers pave the way for the next stages of their academic career. 2 independent postdoctoral researchers (f/m/d) salary scale (German) 14 TV-L, full-time The positions are limited 1.1.2027 – (according to § 2 WissZeitVG) The University of Bremen as an employer With around 20,000 students and approximately 3,500 staff members, the University of Bremen is a medium-sized university. It ranks among the universities in Germany with the highest levels of external funding and research activity. The Martian Mindset “The Martian Mindset - A scarcity-driven engineering paradigm” is a newly funded Cluster of Excellence established at the University of Bremen in 2026. Our scientists are developing the “Martian Mindset” in order to rethink the production of materials and components from scratch. The scarcity of resources and extreme conditions on the red planet serve as a setting to develop a new paradigm of sustainability that will lay the foundations for a fossil-fuel-free production of materials and parts from scarce resources in a highly automated and resilient way. More information on the ten research foci, the project leaders are available on our website: The Open Idea Competition The Open Idea program comprises a total of eight postdoctoral positions advertised in four calls (2026 – 2029) with two positions each to start in years 2027 to 2030. We are particularly committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in science. Six of the eight positions will be specifically reserved for researchers from our equity and diversity target groups (women, international researchers, first-generation academics). This initiative reflects our belief that diverse perspectives are essential for transformative research and innovation. By supporting early-career researchers from under-represented groups, we aim to create a more inclusive scientific ecosystem and ensure that the next generation of research leaders reflects the global diversity of talent. We are looking for dynamic and open-minded personalities who enjoy conducting cutting-edge research in an interdisciplinary, international, and diverse team. We welcome applications from R21 researchers of all disciplines who have completed their PhD (or will have completed it before the start of the position). Candidates from all countries are encouraged to apply. Your main responsibilities will include We seek bold, original, and interdisciplinary research proposals that push the boundaries of knowledge. The Cluster welcomes projects that: Address fundamental questions and contribute to the long-term vision of The Martian Mindset Substantially extend the research conducted by the Cluster and the host’s group Integrate perspectives across disciplines Explore novel methodologies or challenge established paradigms. Your convincing 3-year research program should demonstrate scientific originality, methodological rigor, feasibility, and potential for high-impact outcomes. Requirements Key Criteria are: A completed academic university degree (Master/University Diploma) in any field relevant to The Martian Mindset PhD degree (or proof of imminent completion) in any field relevant to The Martian Mindset Academic excellence (e.g. outstanding dissertation, prizes, awards, high-impact publications …) Eagerness to contribute to a sustainable human exploration of space and to a green transition on Earth Convincing 3-year research program (see above, main responsibilities) Support from a host from one of the participating institutions (see below) Proficiency in English (written and spoken) It would also be an advantage to have: German language skills Host The successful candidates are expected to carry out their research independently and will become project leaders in the Cluster. They will be hosted by an experienced researcher (R3-R4/2) from the University of Bremen or one of the Cluster’s participating institutions, who will also become a project leader in the Cluster if they are not already. The hosts need to provide a letter of support which confirms the availability of research facilities and explains how the proposed project substantially extends both the Cluster’s research and that of the host’s own research group. There must be no overlap with current research topics of the Cluster. We offer Career Impact: Your Future, Our Commitment These positions are designed not only to advance groundbreaking research but also to accelerate the career development of early-career researchers. As a postdoctoral rese