Research Associate „Sustainable Synthesis and Catalysis“ (PhD Position) § 28 Subsection 1 HmbHG

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

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 16.10.2026, 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: 2026-08-18

Scope of work: part-time

Weekly hours: 65 % of standard work hours per week

Your responsibilities

Research associates will be expected primarily to teach and conduct research. The research associate will also have the opportunity to pursue further academic qualifications, in particular a doctoral dissertation. At least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the research associate’s own academic work.

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Hamburg has a vacancy for a PhD student. The tasks include innovative research in the field of metal- and photocatalysis as well as circular chemistry. You will work in an interdisciplinary team on the development of novel catalysts for sustainable chemical processes, such as reductions, hydrogenations, cross-couplings, radical additions, hydrogen technologies and polymer degradation. The research focuses on the synthesis of new metal complexes and dyes, their use as (photo)catalysts for organic syntheses and small molecule activation, and the elucidation of reaction mechanisms using modern spectroscopic methods. The projects offer excellent opportunities for the creative further development of sustainable catalytic processes, the establishment of novel reactions and interdisciplinary collaboration with scientists from physics, theory and technical chemistry. You will use your research results for scientific publications and your own scientific qualification within the framework of a doctoral thesis.

You will be actively involved in the multidisciplinary and diverse research and teaching activities of the Department of Chemistry, including 2.6 hours per week teaching in the undergraduate curricula.

You can expect exciting questions in modern catalysis research, coordination chemistry and recycling management in a dynamic environment, excellent laboratory equipment and supervision tailored to your needs in a liveable metropolis.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

M. Sc. or equivalent university degree in chemistry (very good grades); extensive experience in the synthesis of (metal)organic compounds incl. the handling of air/moisture sensitive compounds; very good knowledge in preparative chemistry and molecular catalysis including the application of modern spectroscopic methods; interest in novel challenges in catalysis research and sustainable chemistry; motivation for interdisciplinary cooperation with physics, theory and technical chemistry working groups; very good knowledge of English (both written and oral).

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. Axel Jacobi von Wangelin

Dr. Dieter Schaarschmidt

Location

Martin-Luther-King-Platz 6
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

215

Application deadline

2026-08-18

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.