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 Otto Schott Institute of Materials Research (OSIM) seeks to fill the position of a

Postdoctoral Researcher

full-time (40 hours per week) commencing on 1 September 2024. This is a permanent position.

The Chair of Materials Science at which the position is located focuses on biomaterials research and development. Antimicrobial biomaterials, protein-based materials and nano biomaterials are at the center of our research interest.
As our new ‘Postdoctoral Researcher’ you are responsible for the creation, characterization and testing of novel cutting-edge biomaterials and for developing new biomaterials concepts. You play a key role contributing to the success of our new DFG Research Training Group (RTG) 2723 in Antimicrobial Biomaterials (https://www.mmm.uni-jena.de/), cooperating closely with the DFG Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 1278 PolyTarget that both attract outstanding young and experienced researchers. In addition to excellent research, you will be involved in undergraduate and graduate teaching of materials science students and doctoral researchers, administration and lab management at the Chair of Materials Science.

Your responsibilities:

• Design, develop and characterize new biomaterials, novel antimicrobial materials and nano biomaterials
• Conduct interdisciplinary research in an international team
• Actively and effectively contribute to the development of the project in research, training and organization of the RTG and the research of the CRC
• Produce high-quality written manuscripts for publication and support publications by other researchers
• Assist with training and supervision of other researchers, including doctoral researchers, masters’ and undergraduate project students and conduct teaching activities
• Carry out teaching including practicals, seminars, tutorials (8 LVS)
• Development of new research projects and grant applications, both independent and supporting
• Develop your own scientific qualification, e.g., a habilitation or similar
• Assist with maintaining scientific equipment, organization and planning of teaching, administration and occupational safety and laboratory management

Your profile:

• An excellent PhD degree and MSc degree in one of the following areas: materials science & engineering (preferred), biomaterials science, physics, organic chemistry or closely related.
• Specialist knowledge in at least three of the following areas: biomaterials, protein-based materials, carbon-based nanomaterials, PVD, nanoparticles, materials design, synthesis and characterization, different microscopy (OM, AFM, SEM, TEM, CLSM) and spectroscopy techniques (XPS, UV-Vis), basic knowledge in organic chemistry, handling and safety of chemicals
• Experience in interdisciplinary research, publication and presentation of results, result oriented personality
• Experience in undergraduate and graduate student teaching at all levels
• The ability to work creatively and independently towards developing your own research project and collaborate with doctoral researchers of other disciplines
• Excellent organization, communication and lab management skills
• An integrative and cooperative personality with enthusiasm for actively participating in the dynamic RTG community
• Excellent German and English communication skills, both written and spoken are essential

We offer:

• An exciting and cutting-edge field of research and teaching. An exciting and flexible scope of activities with creative freedom
• Participation in diverse experimental and theoretical research projects with a strong interdisciplinary nature at the interface between materials science, physics and life sciences
• Involvement in national and international networks of universities, research institutes and industrial companies
• Modern equipment and infrastructure to facilitate excellent research
• Participation in international conferences and research visits
• The chance to help shape pioneering developments at a modern and at the same time traditional university covering all disciplines
• A comprehensive further and continuing education program and individual qualification and development opportunities
• A family-friendly working environment with a variety of offers for families: University Family Office ‘JUniFamilie’ and flexible childcare (JUniKinder)
• •University health promotion and a wide range of university sports activities
• Attractive fringe benefits, e.g. capital formation benefits (VL) and an occupational pension (VBL)
• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) initially at salary scale E13 — depending on the candidate’s personal qualifications—, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement.
• 30 days vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The advertised position is permanent. This is a full-time position (40 hours per week).

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

Are you eager to work with us? Then apply by 19.07.2024 using our online form.