Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence Quantum Universe” focusing on the search for Dark Matter § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG
InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Institute of Experimental Physics
Salary level
Start date01.07.2026, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline12.05.2026
Scope of workpart-time
Weekly hours66,67 % of standard work hours per week
Your responsibilities
Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.
The Cluster of Excellence “Quantum Universe” performs research to understand mass and gravity at the interface between quantum physics and cosmology. The research team includes leading scientists from mathematics, particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology at the University of Hamburg and DESY.
We offer a position to pursue searches for particle Dark Matter through a combination of instrumentation development and data analysis, including low radioactivity methods and machine learning techniques. We contribute to the DarkSide-20k and IAXO experiments, and we play a leading role in the DarkSPHERE collaboration – exploring uncharted parameter space in sub-GeV particle dark matter using novel gaseous detectors. The successful candidate will be involved in all relevant experimental aspects. They will learn and experience a broad range of state-of-the-art particle physics techniques and skills. The positions will be located in Hamburg, however, travel at international research facilities, e. g. CERN, SNOLAB, LNGS, and the Boulby Underground Laboratory, is foreseen.
Doctoral research associates will become members of the Quantum Universe Research School (QURS), which provides academic and key skills training, as well as career planning support. In addition, they will receive individual budgets to facilitate the attendance of summer schools and conferences, and to support other educational measures. Additional travel money for project-specific duties will be provided by the hosting research groups. Doctoral researchers may participate in teaching at the University and in the organization of the Cluster via an early career council.
Your profile
A university degree in a relevant field.
1. completed university studies in physics (Master degree or comparable)
2. very good knowledge of experimental particle physics, particle detectors, and data analysis
3. very good computer programming skills
4. motivation and ability to conduct independent research as part of a research team
5. good command of written and spoken English, and excellent communication skills
Successful candidates are expected to pursue a PhD in Physics at the University of Hamburg. The regular duration of a PhD at the Department of Physics is three years.
We offer
6. Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
7. Continuing education opportunities
8. University pensions
9. Attractive location
10. Flexible working hours
11. Work-life balance opportunities
12. Health management, EGYM Wellpass
13. Educational leave
14. 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 nonacademic 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.
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.
The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.
Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.