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Faculty of Chemistry and Biochemistry :
Chair of Theoretical Chemistry II
Schienbein Group
In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (26,6861 hours/week = 67%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for a
Doctoral Researcher (m/f/x) in Time-Resolved Vibrational Spectroscopy, Schienbein group, Theoretical Chemistry II, Research Alliance Ruhr
The research group of Dr. Philipp Schienbein (https://schienbein.eu) at the Chair of Theoretical Chemistry II at Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB) is part of the Research Center Chemical Sciences and Sustainability of the Research Alliance Ruhr (RAR). The RAR is a joint initiative of TU Dortmund, Ruhr-Universität Bochum and Universität Duisburg-Essen funded by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia to expand the research landscape in the metropolitan area Ruhr. Our group is located close to the RUB-Campus in Bochum. Our group focuses on the quantitative calculation and interpretation of (time-dependent) vibrational spectra of complex condensed-phase systems from first principles, with the aim of relating spectroscopic fingerprints to underlying molecular structure and dynamics, including systems driven out of equilibrium. To this end, we develop and apply ab initio molecular dynamics, non-linear and time-resolved spectroscopic formalisms as well as machine-learning approaches, with particular emphasis on aqueous and catalytic interfaces in explicit solvent and at finite temperatures.
Scope: part-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 years
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2026-06-04
Your tasks:
We are seeking a highly motivated doctoral student to work in the field of thermal and electrochemical oxidation catalysis. The project focuses on investigating catalytically relevant metal oxide systems using fully atomistic machine learning molecular dynamics simulations in explicit solvation. You will calculate quantitative, time-resolved IR and Raman spectra of these systems, enabling direct comparison with experimental measurements. Your work will involve identifying spectral fingerprints of catalytic reactions under realistic conditions, leading to an in-depth atomistic understanding of reaction mechanisms at metal oxide interfaces.
To achieve this, you will develop and parameterize machine learning models for vibrational spectra calculations. This includes generating training data using electronic structure methods and atomistic simulations. The project also has a strong methodological component, including contributions to the development of our in-house code Mimyria (https://github.com/pschienbein/mimyria) for machine-learning-accelerated vibrational spectroscopy.
The successful candidate is expected to present results at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and actively participate in national and international collaborations within the research group.
Your profile:
Bachelors degree in chemistry, physics, materials science or a related field. At the start for your employment, we need a proof of your successfully completed Master/Diploma Degree in a similar field. Very good communication skills in English (equal to B2 or better, oral and writing) are essential. The ideal candidate will have some knowledge about electronic structure calculations (preferably density functional theory), atomistic simulation techniques like molecular dynamics or Monte Carlo, and programming skills in Python and/or C++. Experience in machine learning is desirable but not essential.
We offer:
The opportunity to work in a dynamic work environment embedded in the exciting collaborative research environment at the Ruhr-University Bochum
• Challenging and varied tasks with a high degree of personal responsibility
• Team-oriented cooperation in a committed, international and appreciative team
• A modern equipped workplace
• Fair and flexible working hours
• Training and development opportunities
• The opportunity to present your work at international conferences
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
If the position is funded by third-party funds the employee has no teaching obligation.
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/sbgk/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Dr. Philipp Schienbein Tel.: 0234 32 15047
Lisa Marie Stein Tel.: 0234 32 19781
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-06-04. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5705.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
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