Research Associate (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering & Process Engineering at the University of Bremen 2026

In this DFG-funded project, we aim to develop and investigate fully inorganic plasmonic ceramic open-cell foams for solar photothermal conversion. The materials consist of an inert ceramic matrix (alumina or aluminum nitride) combined with surface-deposited or incorporated plasmonic transition-metal nitrides (TiN, ZrN, HfN). The foams will be fabricated via established colloidal processing routes, while the plasmonic nitrides will be synthesized in situ by magnesiothermic reduction of oxidic precursors in molten salts.

The project is conducted in collaboration with Prof. Dr.-Ing. Fieback’s group at TU Bergakademie Freiberg, who will perform thermodynamic investigations of the materials.

The main responsibilities include:

• Working on the project, in particular with regard to the fabrication of ceramic foams and the synthesis of transition metal nitrides
• Conducting independent research within the framework of the project, with the opportunity to pursue and complete a doctoral dissertation in an interdisciplinary context
• Presenting and exchanging scientific results at conferences and publishing research findings in internationally renowned peer-reviewed journals
• Collaborating with other doctoral candidates, researchers, and industrial partners to promote joint scientific projects and publications

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineMarch 19, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorUniversity of Bremen
• City to studyBremen
• School to studyUniversity of Bremen
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Annual special payment (“Christmas bonus”), regular collectively agreed salary increases, and an additional occupational pension scheme for the public sector (VBL)
• A secure, interesting, and varied position at an open-minded and internationally oriented university
• 30 days of paid annual leave per calendar year
• A diverse, forward-looking, and open organizational culture
• Support from a collegial and motivated team with a positive working atmosphere
• Individual onboarding and induction
• Opportunities for professional development and further training
• A good work–life balance through flexible working hours (flexitime) and the option of mobile working, bject to applicable conditions
• Free support services within the framework of social and family counseling
• An active occupational health management program, including the possibility of discounted access to local sports clubs, fitness studios, and swimming pools (EGYM Wellpass)
• The option to use a subsidized job ticket for public transportation
• A wide range of sports and cultural activities
• Varied and affordable dining options in the cafeterias operated by the Student Services (Studierendenwerk)

Requirements

• Successfully completed university degree (Master’s or equivalent university diploma) in chemistry, engineering sciences, or a comparable field
• Solid background in inorganic and/or solid-state chemistry, applied materials science, or related disciplines
• Experience with modern imaging techniques such as X-ray tomography and electron microscopy, combined with relevant programming and scripting skills for image analysis, is considered a strong asset
• Excellent command of German, both written and spoken (minimum CEF level C1)
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken (minimum CEF level C1)

Application Documents

• Cover letter
• CV
• Proof of qualifications
• Certificates

We kindly ask you to submit only copies (no folders), as we are unable to return them. Once the selection process has been completed, your application documents will be stored in accordance with legal requirements and then destroyed.

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Please submit your application with complete and meaningful documents quoting the reference number A022-26 as one PDF file via unencrypted electronic mail to: michael.maasuni-bremen.de
• or by mail to:
  Universität Bremen
  PD Dr. rer. nat. Michael Maas
  Am Biologischen Garten 2
  28359 Bremen

For more information, kindly visit the University of Bremen webpage.