Research Associate for the Project “VALPROTOX” Protein-based functional materials § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Physical Chemistry

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.10.2026 pending approval of external funding, fixed until 30.09.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-08-16

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 67 % 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.

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in the field of biohybrid materials.

Our research focuses on the development of functional protein-based materials and the investigation of their synthesis, processing, and performance, for example, for advanced biomedical and biotechnological applications.

In this position, you will focus on the production of protein-based adsorber materials, from recombinant protein expression and purification to the optimization and scale-up of robust and reproducible synthesis protocols.

Within our research group the successful candidate will be responsible for:

Experimental Research

• produce and purify recombinant proteins using established molecular biology and biochemical techniques
• synthesize protein-based materials under varying preparation conditions and investigate how synthesis parameters influence material properties and functional performance
• establish robust and reproducible synthesis protocols and transfer laboratory-scale procedures to larger production scales
• carry out functional performance and adsorption experiments in collaboration with project partners

Data Analysis and Process Development

• analyze experimental data and evaluate the relationship between synthesis conditions, material properties, and functional performance
• use complementary characterization data generated within the project to support material optimization and process development
• maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activities and findings

Method Development

• develop and optimize methodologies for the preparation of protein-based materials
• improve and standardize experimental workflows to enhance reproducibility, robustness, and scalability

Collaboration and Communication

• work collaboratively within the group and with interdisciplinary project partners, coordinating with colleagues performing advanced material characterization
• present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences
• prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to project reporting across collaborating work packages

Mentoring

• mentor undergraduate and master's students involved in related research projects

Compliance and Safety

• ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards and actively participate in laboratory safety training

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Candidates are required to have:

• master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, or a closely related field
• practical laboratory experience in protein chemistry, biomolecular materials, or related areas
• experience with recombinant protein production and purification methods (e.g., expression in E. coli, chromatographic purification such as FPLC) is highly desirable
• experience in the preparation and optimization of functional materials, biomaterials, or related systems is advantageous
• strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to design and evaluate experiments independently
• interest in developing reproducible and scalable synthesis workflows for protein-based materials
• ability to analyze experimental data and integrate results from complementary characterization approaches
• good organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate experimental records
• good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary research team
• excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral; knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to pursue a PhD at the University of Hamburg in Chemistry.

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.

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. Tobias Beck

Location

Grindelallee 117
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

204

Application deadline

2026-08-16

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.