Research Associate (m/f/d) -
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in
Research Group for Numerical Structural Analysis
Remuneration EG 13 TV-L
ID 3626WM10
Start of employment: 01.06.2026
Application deadline 28.02.2026
Scope part-time (82,5% - full-time employment possible) and fixed term until 48 months
The DFG-funded Research Training Group (RTG) “Multiscale Imaging and Analytics of Interfaces in Musculoskeletal Health” brings together an interdisciplinary team of researchers from the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH), DESY (PETRA III), and Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon.
We combine cutting-edge imaging, experimental analytics, data science, and translational medicine to visualize, understand and predict how musculoskeletal interfaces form, adapt, fail, or regenerate.
PhD candidates are working in one of the projects at RTG. In total, we are hiring 10 PhD candidates for the first cohort of the RTG, running for 4 years from 2026-2030.
Project P8 will be allocated at the Numerical Structural Analysis research group at TUHH, which develops advanced simulation methods for complex problems in Computational Mechanics. In this position, you will further develop the Finite Cell Method (FCM). The project, titled "Assessing the mechanical damping effect of fat in vertebral bone", aims to investigate the influence of fat by advancing FCM to simulate elastodynamic behavior, thereby elucidating potential risk factors for fractures and metabolic bone disease. For further information and job opportunities, please visit the RTG project website.
The RTG fosters a vibrant, collaborative, and international research environment – right in the heart of Hamburg’s rapidly growing life-science ecosystem. In addition to access to world-class research facilities, this position offers a unique profile, including annual winter and summer schools, start-up classes, and an international scientific network.
YOUR TASKS
- Advancement and application of the Finite Cell Method for vertebral bone
- Modeling mechanical properties of fat and bone
- Conducting dynamic structural analyses of vertebrae including fat
- Implementing and validating numerical methods in C++
- Disseminating research findings through publications and presentations at conferences
YOUR PROFILE
Requirements
- Completed scientific university studies, in particular in the subject computational mechanics, computational engineering, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering
Desired knowledge and personal skills
- Knowledge of the Finite Element Method / Finite Cell Method
- Knowledge in the field of structural dynamics
- Good programming skills in C++
- Very good English skills
- A collaborative mindset for working in an international and interdisciplinary team
OUR OFFER
- Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD
- A job in an interesting, friendly and appreciative working environment
- Intensive induction/onboarding
- Comprehensive training and further education programs
At the heart of TU Hamburg’s research, teaching and transfer of technology is the guiding principle of developing technology for people. The TU Hamburg sees itself in this context as a family-friendly and sustainable university with high performance and quality standards that strives for excellence in all its research fields. Interdisciplinarity, innovation, regionality and internationality are binding principles in our actions.
With currently around 8.000 students, 110 professors and 1.650 employees, the TU Hamburg is characterised by short decision-making processes and close cooperation between the board, the institutes, the deans of studies, the research areas and the administration. We identify ourselves with a modern leadership culture and cultivate appreciative interaction.
For further information please contact Prof. Alexander Düster, Tel.-Nr. +49 40 30601 6083,
Email: alexander.duester@tuhh.de.
The TU Hamburg stands for equal opportunities as well as appreciative and respectful cooperation.
Please send your complete application documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae in table form, proof of completed training and/or university degree, job references or certificates of employment) via the online application system.
Please submit proof of all obtained university degrees and, if available, the recognition of your educational qualifications in Germany (e.g. anabin excerpts and/or acknowledgement of previous employers).
