Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence ‚CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter‘- Ambient temperature superconductivity in superhydrides” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Cluster of Excellence „CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter“ (photon and nanosciences)

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: as soon as possible, fixed until 31.12.2032 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-09-01

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

You will generate La-based superhydrides under extreme pressure conditions. This includes the design, operation and experimental use of high-pressure diamond anvil cells. You will prepare the starting materials, prepare and load a pressure cell with electrical contacts, perform laser-induced chemisty under extreme pressure to synthesize the hydride in situ. Room-temperature superconductivity will be identified via transport and magnetic measurements, and upper critical fields measured in a magnet-cryostat. Chemical and physical analysis of the reaction products are measured with X-ray diffraction and absorption techniques in the closed cell.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

This project is technically highly demanding. You can demonstrate 5 years or more experience in a high-pressure laboratory working on transport experiments above 300GPa in diamond anvil cells through multiple scientific publications on the matter. You have designed your own diamond anvil cells to customize the cell type and shape to match experimental environment variables. Conceptual background in superconductivity and BCS theory is beneficial.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements ( and ).

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Philip Moll

Dr. Carsten Putzke

Location

Luruper Chaussee 149
22761 Hamburg

Reference number

218

Application deadline

2026-09-01

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.