Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Interface Physics and Engineering

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 Institute forInterface Physics and Engineeringat the Hamburg University of Technology for1 February 2026 we are looking for aResearch Associate (m/f/d) -Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiterinto conduct research within projectUnderstanding fluid transport phenomena in materials from electrochemical experiments and atomistic simulations(B1) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is full time and fixed-term until 31 January 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13TV-L(collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).You will explore and investigate fluid transport in hierarchical materials under electrochemical conditions using atomistic simulations. You will focus on non-Faradaic processes modelled using the ELECTRODE package developed here for LAMMPS, in order to understand the impact of the first adsorbed water molecule at the solid/liquid interface of the hierarchical materials in BlueMat. You will also study how water, double layer formation and confinement effects influence nanofluidic behaviour in materials such as nanoporous silicon, nanoporous silicon dioxide and carbon-based materials like graphene, including functionalised variants with electroactive polymers. This position involves close collaboration with computational modelling and experimental teams and enhances understanding of electrochemical phenomena in complex materials.YOUR CONTRIBUTIONSInvestigate the electrochemical double layer in nanoporous silicon and silica, focusing on water structure at the interface under controlled water-solid interactions via applied external potentialsConduct atomistic simulations of selective electrosorption through non-equilibrium flow simulations in functionalized polymer membranes and hierarchically nanoporous carbon electrodes such as GlobugraphiteStudy faradaic processes using machine-learned force fields (MLFFs) to understand how electric potential influences chemical reactivity and selective transport at electrode interfacesCollaborate closely with BlueMat partners in imaging, modeling, and fluid transport to integrate findings into the broader cluster programShare your findings through publications and engage with the research community and publicYOUR PROFILEEssential qualificationCompleted university studies (master's degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of Physics, Theoretical Chemistry, Materials Science or Computer ScienceRequired Knowledge And Personal SkillsStrong expertise in atomistic simulation techniques, including modeling electrochemical interfaces, water-solid interactions, and nanofluidic processes under applied external potentialsVery good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatoryCuriosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teamsDesired knowledge and personal skillsIn-depth knowledge of electrochemical phenomena such as double layer formation, selective electrosorption, and faradaic reactionsExperience in simulating non-equilibrium flow in complex materials and membranesOUR OFFERScientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research clusterAccess to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, German language support, mentoring, and career developmentParticipation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networksFlexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family-friendly policiesAccess to on-campus fitness facilities and health promotion programsFor further information please contactProf. Dr. Robert Meißner atrobert.meissner@tuhh.deor Prof. Dr. Patrick Huber at patrick.huber@tuhh.dewe are pleased 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 statusas defined in Section 2 of the German Social Code, Book IX (SGB IX).The Hamburg University of Technology stands for equal opportunitiesas well as appreciative and respectful cooperation.Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, CV, degree certificates) via the online application system, quoting the vacancy ID 30925WBMM29, by 12 November 2025.