Research Associate for the Project “Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Strongly Correlated Materials” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Physics, 1st Institute for Theoretical Physics

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.05.2026 or later, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-02-28

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 75 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

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

Strongly correlated materials exhibit complex free-energy landscapes with competing low-energy states, leading to rich phase diagrams and pronounced responses to external perturbations. Driving these systems out of equilibrium using ultrashort laser pulses offers unique opportunities to explore correlation phenomena and the interplay of electron-electron, electron-phonon, and electron-spin interactions. Of particular interest are photo-induced non-equilibrium states and relaxation dynamics that may enable access to long-lived or metastable phases inaccessible via slow thermodynamic pathways.

In this project, we aim to advance the theoretical understanding of non-equilibrium dynamics in correlated electron systems beyond the local correlation regime. A central focus will be on the role of non-local effects, including long-range interactions, spatial inhomogeneities, and collective dynamics in photo-induced phase transitions. The work will involve state-of-the-art simulations based on non-equilibrium dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT) and its extensions, including the development and implementation of advanced impurity solvers for multi-orbital and multiplet-resolved dynamics.

The project is closely integrated with experimental efforts using time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and femtosecond x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Target systems include doped bulk and surface structures of 1T-TaS₂, adatom systems on semiconductor surfaces, and charge-transfer insulators. The successful candidate will contribute to the interpretation of experimental data and to the theoretical exploration of non-thermal and metastable phases in these materials.

The position is embedded in the DFG Research Unit and offers opportunities for close collaboration with experimental partners, participation in joint workshops and network activities, and access to a vibrant interdisciplinary research environment on the Hamburg campus.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Applicants must hold a university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in physics by the start of employment. Required is experience with theoretical and/or computational methods for interacting quantum systems, such as numerical or analytical many-body approaches (e.g. dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT), cluster methods, or non-equilibrium Green’s functions). Experience in theoretical condensed matter physics and in the numerical simulation of correlated electron systems, as well as programming skills (e.g. Python, C++), are considered advantageous but are not mandatory.

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.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Martin Eckstein

Location

Notkestraße 9-11
22607 Hamburg

Reference number

40

Application deadline

2026-02-28

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.