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 Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry seeks to fill the position of a

Scientific Researcher Polymer Gels

We offer part-time position (65%, 26 hours per week), for an initial period of three years.

The position is part of the research group FOR2811 "Adaptive Polymer Gels with Model Network Structure" (https://www.for2811.uni-mainz.de/) and deals with the formation, properties, and response of polymer networks. Specifically, we are interested in the reversible formation of such networks using attractive electrostatic interactions betweens charged building blocks of star-shaped polymers. These dynamic networks are then investigated with regard to structure formation, defects, and transport properties together with partners at the universities of Darmstadt, Mainz, Stuttgart, Hannover and Halle.

Your responsibilities:

• You will work on an interdisciplinary research project
• Preparation and investigation of star-shaped polymers with different functional groups
• Preparation and modification of hydrogels and organogels
• Investigation of structure formation and reversibility of the network
• Work on own scientific qualification project, i.e. doctoral degree
• Planning of the project, experimental work, reporting and communication
• Generation of scientific results in the form of publications, posters, presentations and dissertations, including participation in national/international conferences

Your profile:

• A master's degree (or equivalent), e.g., in chemistry or a related field
• Willingness to work and exchange scientific knowledge in an interdisciplinary team
• Knowledge in the field of polymer science
• Enthusiasm to play an active role in our nterdisciplinary team
• Highly motivated and creative personality, with interest in designing own dissertation project
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

We offer:

• Remuneration according to the provisions of the collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L) in accordance with personal requirements up to pay group E13 including a special annual payment according to the collective agreement.
• Opportunity to conduct research at the interface of chemistry, physics and materials science as part of a highly interdisciplinary collaborative project and access to an innovative and globally unique research platform
• A structured PhD within the research group FOR2811.
• Become part of an international and interdisciplinary research group within a scientific network that offers research and infrastructure at the highest level, including participation in international and national conferences, summer schools and workshops
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs;
• 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), Job Ticket (benefits for public transport), and an occupational pension (VBL)
• 30 days of recreational leave in the calendar year plus two days off for Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.

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

Are you eager to work for us? Then submit your detailed written application, preferably by email (one PDF file), stating the vacancy ID 074/2023 by 15.04.2023 to: