The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

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

Research Assistant Lignin

at the earliest possible date. We offer part-time position (65%, 26 hours per week) a fixed-term position for 3 years.

As part of the large collaborative project LignUp, you are conducting research on the functionalization of lignin at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This work is integrated into overarching projects aimed at establishing the material chemistry foundations for a sustainable economy based on renewable

Your responsibilities:

• Independent development of methods for functionalizing the natural substance lignin using non-thermally activated chemistry and characterization of the products obtained
• After comprehensive methodological training, independent development, realization, and evaluation of the associated experimental work, in particular using the methods of laser photolysis, pulse radiolysis, electron beam radiolysis, you will complement the functionalization of lignin by in-depth mechanistic studies of the non-thermally activated reactions underlying the material modification
• Presentation of your results at international conferences
• Publication of your results together with partners in internationally renowned journals
• As part of the project, you are expected write your dissertation for the purpose of obtaining a Ph.D

Your profile:

• You have a university degree (master's or equivalent) with very good or good grades in either chemistry, physics, or a related natural science or engineering
• You are interested in upcycling the natural product lignin using non-thermally activated chemistry and are interested in elucidating the mechanisms underlying these reactions
• It is advantageous if you have in-depth knowledge of chemical reaction kinetics and, ideally, first experience in electrochemistry, photochemistry, radiation chemistry, or time-resolved spectroscopy
• You have very good written and spoken English skills; good German skills are advantageous
• Your tasks require a high degree of willingness to travel to research facilities outside Thuringia and to participate in scientific conferences in Germany and abroad

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:

• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at E 13, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement
• A Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates and postdocs
• 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)
• 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31

The advertised position is offered as a fixed-term position for a maximum of 3 years. The position is for the purpose of working on a fixed-term third-party funded project. This is a part-time position with 65% of the working hours of a full-time employee (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 January, 5th using our online form.