Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence BlueMat - Exploring Water in Nanochannels under Graphene Confinement” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG
InstitutionFaculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, Center for Hybrid Nanostructures (CHyN)
Salary level
Start date01.03.2026 pending approval of external funding, fixed until 28.02.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline04.01.2026
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 independent research and further academic qualifications. They may also pursue doctoral studies outside of working duties.
The project investigates the behavior of water under extreme confinement in solid-state nanochannels sealed by monolayer or bilayer graphene, combining nanofabrication, surface functionalization, and electronic transport analysis.
Tasks include:
1. fabrication of nanochannels and integration of graphene membranes as sealing and sensing layers
2. electronic transport and capacitive measurements for monitoring water occupancy and flow
3. spectroscopic characterization (Raman, infrared) to correlate electronic and structural water signatures
4. functionalization and hierarchical modification of graphene using CVD methods and other as well as clean room fabrication
5. collaboration with BlueMat partners (B2.2, B3.1, C2.1, C2.2, C3.2) and contribution to joint publications
6. preparation of manuscripts, participation in BlueMat workshops, and data management according to FAIR principles
Your profile
A university degree in a relevant field.
7. M.Sc. (or equivalent) in Physics, Nanoscience, or related field
8. strong background in graphene physics, nanofabrication, and quantum/electronic transport
9. specific experience in RF-circuit simulation and electrical transport measurements (DC-electronics, HV-circuits)
10. experience in cleanroom techniques, lithography, or thin-film processing advantageous
11. knowledge required of COMSOL simulations, spectroscopy (Raman/IR), and data analysis in Python, LaTeX
12. excellent English communication skills; proficiency in German advantageous
We offer
13. Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
14. Continuing education opportunities
15. University pensions
16. Attractive location
17. Flexible working hours
18. Work-life balance opportunities
19. Health management, EGYM Wellpass
20. Educational leave
21. 30 days of vacation per annum
22. participation in the DFG Excellence Cluster BlueMat – “Materials for a Sustainable Future”
23. access to CHyN’s advanced nanofabrication and measurement infrastructure, including graphene processing, microfluidic assembly, and high-frequency electronic characterization
24. an interdisciplinary and international research environment linking physics, materials science, and fluidic nanotechnology
25. support for doctoral qualification and international collaboration opportunities
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.