Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Physics of Functional Materials

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 ofPhysics of Functional Materialsfor 1 February 2026 we are looking for aResearch Associate (m/f/d) -Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiterinto conduct research within projectCA Modelling: Multi-scale simulations of water wetting and electromagnetic properties in nanoporous media at applied electric potentialsas 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 how water properties can be tuned in conducting nanoporous materials upon application of electric potentials using different simulation approaches. In detail, we bridge the scale between density functional theory level and force field atomistic simulations by injecting the molecular interactions derived from quantum chemical calculations into the parametrization of the electrode. The in-pore behavior will be analyzed in detail. Finally, the microscopic information shall be incorporated into a Lattice-Boltzmann model to study electrically driven imbibition.YOUR CONTRIBUTIONSDevelop innovative simulation approaches to study electrowetting in atomistic simulationsPerform and extend existing analysis methods building upon MAICoSDevelop and implement efficient grand-canonical simulation approaches into the LAMMPS packageImplement and verify a two-phase Lattice-Boltzmann solver with locally adaptive relaxation to up-scale the obtained informationCollaborate closely with BlueMat partners in imaging, modeling, and all project areas to integrate findings into the broader cluster programShare your findings through publications and engage with the research community and publicYOUR PROFILEEssential qualificationCompleted scientific university studies (master's degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of physics, especially with a strong background in soft matter, statistical mechanics and solid-state theoryRequired Knowledge And Personal SkillsComprehensive knowledge in numerical methods, preferably including electronic structure calculations and fluid dynamicsProgramming skills in C++ and PythonVery 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 skillsBeneficial is the experience with simulations using packages like LAMMPS, GROMACS, CP2K, WaLBerla or ESPResSoWillingness to strongly collaborate with experimental groups and understand/model the required fine details relevant for further insightsOUR 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. Alexander Schlaich atalexander.schlaich@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 30025WBMM20, by 12 November 2025.