Friedrich Schiller University is a traditional university with a strong research profile rooted in the heart of Germany. As a university covering all disciplines, it offers a wide range of subjects. Its research is focused on the areas Light—Life—Liberty. It is closely networked with non-research institutions, research companies and renowned cultural institutions. With around 18,000 students and more than 8,600 employees, the university plays a major role in shaping Jena’s character as a cosmopolitan and future-oriented city.

The Institute of Physical Chemistry seeks to fill the position of a

Scientific Researcher
Molecular Photonic and Functional Interfaces

commencing on 1. September 2024

We offer a 65% position (26 hours per week) offered as a fixed-term position until 30.06.2026.

Within the Collaborative Research Center CATALIGHT, funded by the German Science Foundation, the interdisciplinary team Molecular Photonic and Functional Interfaces investigates molecules and materials for photocatalytic water splitting and CO2 fixation. As a group specialized on spectroscopic investigations of light-driven reactivity, we use and develop time-resolved and non-linear optical spectroscopic methods to study photocatalytic processes in situ and in operando.

As part of our international team and as part of the striving community within the Collaborative Research Center CATALIGHT, you will be responsible for conducting time-resolved spectroscopic experiments to study the light-driven processes of molecular photocatalysts embedded into polymer materials. The focus of the work will be on soft-matter materials for light-driven water splitting. In a collaborative environment, you will have the opportunity to develop your own scientific profile and make connections to colleagues from Ulm, Vienna, Kaiserslautern, Mainz, Chicago and Columbus.

Your responsibilities:

• You will head our laboratory for the spectroscopic characterization of solid-liquid interfaces and biomimetic membranes using sum frequency mixing.
• The conceptualization, coordination and implementation of cooperative research projects are part of your responsibilities as well as the
• Work towards a PhD thesis.
• Work on your own scientific profile as a researcher in an internationally networked team.

Your profile:

• We expect a M.Sc. degree in chemistry.
• Ideally, you have experience in time-resolved optical spectroscopy.
• You are willing to work in a collaborative team and undertake business travel to other groups participating in the Collaborative Research Center CATALIGHT.
• Very good written and spoken English skills are an advantage.

Are you hesitating because you don't meet one or some of our requirements? Please do not hesitate to apply and give us a chance to get to know you.

We offer:

• Collaboration in diverse experimental research with a strongly interdisciplinary and international character
• Excellent experimental equipment and infrastructure
• Interesting and varied tasks (at an international level) / participation in an international research consortium
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at / up to salary scale 13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

This is a 65% position (26 hours per week).

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work for us? Then apply by 4 July 2024 using our online form.