Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Materials P[...]

Overview

Be among the first 25 applicants and join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water‑Driven Materials” with the Institute of Materials Physics and Technology. Collaborate with a dynamic interdisciplinary team that blends science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

Position

Research Associate (m/f/d) – Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in. Fixed‑term full time until 31 March 2029. Salary according to salary group 13 TV‑L. Conduct research within project “Hierarchical nanoporous metal hydrides for switchable mechanical and acoustic properties” (A1‑2) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. Explore development of hierarchical nanoporous metal hydrides and investigate their switchable mechanical/acoustic properties using advanced in‑situ mechanical/acoustic characterization techniques. Contribute to switchable mechanical/acoustic devices.

Responsibilities

• Develop dealloying‑based methods to fabricate macroscopic hierarchical nanoporous Pd‑based alloys (e.g., Au).
• Conduct multiscale materials microstructure characterization (e.g., SEM, TEM, SAXS/USAXS) and perform various in‑situ mechanical & acoustic measurements including in‑situ dilatometry, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and universal compression testing.
• Determine the hydrogen sorption isotherms, hydrogen‑driven switchable mechanical properties and acoustic behaviors.
• Understand the microstructure‑function‑mechanics correlation to obtain optimized mechanical/acoustic metamaterials and pave the way toward device integration.
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners in modeling, device integration and imaging to integrate findings into the broader cluster program.
• Share findings through publications and engage with the research community and public.

Qualifications

• Completed scientific university studies (master’s degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of materials science or a related area.

Required Knowledge And Personal Skills

• Strong background in nanomaterials, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, electrochemistry and metallurgy.
• Very good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR). German is not mandatory.
• Curiosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams.

Desired Knowledge And Personal Skills

• Practical hands‑on experience in materials science research and related fields is beneficial.
• Knowledge and practical experience in the fields of dealloying, metal hydrides, and mechanical characterization is a strong asset.

Offer

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster.
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, German language support, mentoring, and career development.
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks.
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family‑friendly policies.
• Access to on‑campus fitness facilities and health promotion programs.

Contact

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Shan Shi at We are pleased to support you.

Eligibility

Inclusive excellence drives better science. We actively seek female & international researchers from all walks of life, valuing non‑linear careers and diverse perspectives across cultures, disciplines, and identities. We explicitly welcome applications from persons with severe disabilities and those with equivalent status as defined in Section 2 of the German Social Code, Book IX (SGB IX).

The Hamburg University of Technology stands for equal opportunities as well as appreciative and respectful cooperation.

Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, CV, degree certificates) via the online application system, quoting the vacancy ID 29325WBMMEXK4, by 12 November 2025.

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