Research Associate / Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Biomecanics

Research Associate (m/f/d) – Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in

Institute

Institute of Biomechanics
Remuneration: EG 13 TV‑L
ID: 37525WM3
Start of employment: May 1st 2026
Application deadline: January 31st 2026
Scope: full time, fixed term until April 30th 2030

The Institute for Biomechanics at the Hamburg University of Technology has a strong focus on research and teaching in the field of numerical and experimental biomechanics. We offer a Research Assistant position in a highly dynamic group that is financed by the German Research Foundation (DFG) in the framework of the Research Unit FOR5177: "The dynamics of the spine mechanics, morphology, and motion—towards a comprehensive diagnosis of low back pain". The aim of the project is to develop musculoskeletal and finite element computer models to investigate how muscle forces result in internal mechanical signals (strains/stresses) within the lumbar spine and how they are related to tissue adaptation processes in patients with lumbar pain. The project will be performed in tight collaboration with the group Prof. Hendrik Schmidt at the Berlin Institute of Health (Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin), who will perform in vivo measurements of spine kinematics in subjects with and without lumbar pain.

Tasks

• Develop musculoskeletal computer models of the lumbar spine
• Couple musculoskeletal models to finite element models
• Validate computer models with experimental data from our collaborators
• Publish results in scientific journals and at national and international conferences
• Attend consortium meetings and collaborate with other partners involved in the Research Unit

Profile

Requirements

• Completed scientific university studies, in particular in mechanical or biomedical engineering

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Well‑founded background in one or more of the following areas: mechanics, biomechanics, finite element modeling, computational mechanics
• Strong programming and computer modelling skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Fluent English: oral and written (B2/C1)

Our Offer

• A job in an interesting, friendly and appreciative working environment
• Intensive induction/onboarding
• Flexible and family‑friendly working conditions
• Possibility of mobile working
• 30 day vacation per year

We value diversity, therefore all applications are welcome, regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, nationality, age, religion and belief, disability, sexual orientation and identity or social background. The TUHH stands for equal opportunities as well as appreciative and respectful cooperation.

Contact Information

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Sara Checa Esteban, Tel.-Nr. , Email: .

Please send your complete application documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae in table form, proof of completed training and/or university degree, job references or certificates of employment) via the online application system.

Notice for severely disabled persons and people with equal status: Notice for severely disabled persons and people with equal status.

Notice for graduates of foreign educational qualifications: Please submit proof of all obtained university degrees and, if available, the recognition of your educational qualifications in Germany (e.g. anabin excerpts and/or acknowledgement of previous employers).