Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in (Electron Microscopy Unit)

Join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials” and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

For the Electron Microscopy Unit (BEEM) at Hamburg University of Technology we are looking for a Research Associate (m/f/d) – Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in.

Position Summary

To conduct research within project Cross-Area Imaging: Electron Microscopy (CA-Ima-6) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence, as soon as possible. The position is full time and limited to 36 months. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).

Your Contributions

• Establish in-situ transmission electron microscopy and analysis
• Coordinate and perform scientific research and experiments with in-situ TEM and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM)
• Develop methods to improve temporal and correlative imaging and dynamic analysis of water-driven materials at the nano-scale.
• Collaborate with BlueMat partners in all areas to help further scientific findings
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and the public.

Essential qualifications

• Completed scientific university studies, in particular in the subject areas of natural sciences, materials science or engineering
• Doctorate in a related field is required

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Strong background in transmission electron microscopy
• Interdisciplinary communication and coordination of scientific projects and experiments
• Curiosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams
• Very good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatory. Language support available

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Expertise with in-situ electron microscopy and spectroscopy
• Experience with programming and data processing (i.e. compressed sensing) is an advantage
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of electron microscopes

Our Offer

• Scientific qualification in a leading research cluster
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, 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

Got questions before applying? Contact Dr. Martin Ritter at or Prof. Zeller-Plumhoff at – we’re happy to support you.

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 only, quoting the vacancy ID 2726WBMBEEM, by March 1st 2026.