Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Technical Biocatalysis

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 ofTechnical Biocatalysisat Hamburg University of Technology for 1 February 2026 we are looking for aResearch Associate (m/f/d) -Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiterinto conduct research within projectEnzyme-driven hybrid materials: reversible actuation in aqueous environments (A3.2) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is part time (29.25 hours a week) and fixed-term until 31 January 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 V-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states). You will explore enzyme-driven hybrid materials enabling reversible actuation in aqueous environments. By integrating biocatalysts into hydrogel and nanocellulose matrices, you will achieve tunable stiffness, adhesion, and shape. Real-time spectroscopic monitoring (FTIR, UV/Vis, NMR) will provide mechanistic insight, advancing BlueMat’s vision of water-responsive, programmable materials for adaptive soft robotics, sensors, and smart interfaces.YOUR CONTRIBUTIONSDesign and embed enzyme systems into hydrogel and nanocellulose matrices to achieve reversible pH and redox switchingImplement and optimize inline spectroscopy for real-time monitoring of enzymatic reactions and material responsesDevelop kinetic models describing enzyme-catalyzed actuation processes under confined and aqueous conditionsCollaborate closely with BlueMat partners in modeling, device integration and imaging 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 biocatalysis, bioprocess engineering, biotechnologyRequired Knowledge And Personal SkillsStrong background in enzyme catalysis, biocatalytic reaction engineering, and/or process analytical technologies (FTIR, UV/Vis, NMR)Very 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 in hybrid material systems, hydrogel or nanocellulose processing, and interdisciplinary collaboration at the interface of chemistry, biology, and materials scienceFamiliarity with kinetic modeling, chemometrics, or process control of biocatalytic systemsOUR 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. Andreas Liese atLiese@tuhh.de, alternatively, Dr. Ana Malvis Romero at ana.malvis.romero@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 30325WBMV6, by 12 November 2025.