Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in at the Institute of Water Resources and Water Supply

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 ofWater Resources and Water Supplyfor 1 February 2026 we are looking for aResearch Associate (m/f/d) -Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiterinto conduct research within project Selective capacity deionization by carbon-based electrodes with tunable porosity, surface charge and conductivity(B2) 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 how novel materials interact with water constituents to enable their controlled selective removal via electrosorption and electrodesorption. You will collaborate with BlueMat scientists who design porous electrodes and modify them to maximize e.g., their pore volume and electrically conductive surface area. The results you generate will provide the foundation for BlueMat colleagues who model material–water interactions using molecular dynamics simulations.YOUR CONTRIBUTIONSSet up and operate of a laboratory testing plant for electrosorption/desorption experiments with integrated data-monitoring and control equipment. Characterize electrode materials by e. g. zeta potential, cyclic voltammetry, hydrophobicity, contact-angle measurements, etc. Conduct static and dynamic flow trails with modified electrodes for selective ion removal from model waters. Determine key metrics such as specific loading and desorption rates, including average salt removal rates (ASRR) and adsorption performance in both synthetic and real water matrices. Collaborate closely with BlueMat (B2) scientists to optimize processes and gain deeper insight into underlying mechanisms. Publish and present your findings; contribute to outreach and knowledge transfer within the scientific community and to the public. YOUR PROFILEEssential qualificationCompleted scientific university studies (Master degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject areas of chemical / process or environmental engineeringRequired Knowledge And Personal SkillsCuriosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teamsVery good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatoryStrong background in water engineering and water chemistryExperiences in laboratory work and lab scale test equipmentDesired knowledge and personal skillsBeneficial is the experience with membrane water applications or porous materials, and familiarity with sorption, desorption of water constituentsExpertise in the field of drinking water quality assessmentOUR 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. Mathias Ernst at mathias.ernst@tuhh.de or Prof. Dr. Franziska Lissel atfranziska.lissel@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 28825WBMB11, by 12 November 2025.