Research Associate “Synchrotron-based methods for the investigation of biohybrid nanostructures[...]

Stellenbeschreibung:

Attractive location

Institution Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Physical Chemistry

Salary level EGR. 13 TV‑L

Start date , fixed for a period of three years (fixed‑term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed‑term labour contract act (WissZeitVG)).

Application deadline

Scope of work part‑time

Weekly hours 65% of standard work hours per week

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting‑edge research in the field of biohybrid materials using synchrotron techniques.

Responsibilities

Research associates will be expected primarily to teach and conduct research. The research associate will also have the opportunity to pursue further academic qualifications, in particular a doctoral dissertation. At least one‑third of set working hours will be made available for the research associate’s own academic work.

Our research focuses on the synthesis of biohybrid nanostructures and the investigation of their structural and functional properties. Within our research group the successful candidate will be responsible for:

Experimental Research

solution‑based synthesis of isotropic and anisotropic nanoparticles
preparation of protein samples for encapsulation experiments
design and conduct experiments using synchrotron‑based X‑ray methods
perform experiments to characterize nanoparticles encapsulated in protein cages using X‑ray methods such as SAXS or total X‑ray scattering
combine these results with complementary techniques such as TEM or SEM

Data Analysis and Interpretation

analyze experimental data using appropriate methods and software
interpret the results in the context of refining theoretical models based on the latest development in the field
maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activities and findings
support the application for beamtime at suitable synchrotron beamlines

Method Development

develop and optimise methodologies to study nanoparticles encapsulated in protein cages
implement improvements to existing protocols and instrumentation to enhance research outcomes

Collaboration and Communication

work collaboratively with other researchers, both within the group, at the beamlines and in interdisciplinary teams
present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences
prepare manuscripts for publication in high‑impact scientific journals

Teaching and Mentoring

assist with teaching duties, including laboratory practicals and tutorials, as appropriate (six hours per week on average)
mentor undergraduate and master’s students involved in related projects

Compliance and Safety

ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards in all research activities
actively participate in safety training sessions and maintain a safe working environment

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Candidates are required to have

master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Nanoscience, Computing in Science or a closely related field
strong background in X‑ray based methods, for example, crystallography or small‑angle X‑ray scattering
experience in solution‑based nanoparticle synthesis
experience with characterization of nanoparticles using SAXS and/or previous knowledge in protein chemistry is highly desirable
excellent problem‑solving skills and analytical thinking
proficiency in programming (e.g., Python) is an advantage
good communication skills and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral; knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
Continuing education opportunities
University pensions
Attractive location
Flexible working hours
Work‑life balance opportunities
Health management, EGYM Wellpass
Educational leave
30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge‑exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and non‑academic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non‑disabled applicants.