Join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials” and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

For the Institute of Materials Physics and Technology for 1 April 2026 we are looking for a

Research Associate (m/f/d) - 
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in 

to conduct research within project Hierarchical nanoporous metal hydrides for switchable mechanical and acoustic properties (A1-2) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is full time and fixed-term until 31 March 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).

You will explore the development of hierarchical nanoporous metal hydrides and investigate their switchable mechanical/acoustic properties and open system elasticity using advanced in-situ mechanical/acoustic characterization techniques, contributing to switchable mechanical/acoustic devices.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• Develop dealloying-based methods to fabricate macroscopic hierarchical nanoporous Pd-based alloys (e.g., Au)
• Conduct multiscale materials microstructure characterization (e.g., SEM, TEM, SAXS/USAXS) and perform various in-situ mechanical & acoustic measurements including in-situ dilatometry, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), and universal compression testing
• Determine the hydrogen sorption isotherms, hydrogen-driven switchable mechanical properties and acoustic behaviors
• Understand the microstructure–function–mechanics correlation to obtain optimized mechanical/acoustic metamaterials, paving the way toward device integration
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners in modeling, device integration and imaging to integrate findings into the broader cluster program
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public
  

YOUR PROFILE

Essential qualification

• Completed scientific university studies (master's degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of materials science or a related area

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Strong background in the fields of nanomaterials, solid mechanics, thermodynamics, electrochemistry and metallurgy
• Very good English required (at least B2/C1 level according to CEFR) – German is not mandatory
• Curiosity and teamwork skills for working in interdisciplinary teams 

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• Practical hands-on experience in materials science research and related fields is beneficial
• Knowledge and practical experience in the fields of dealloying, metal hydrides, and mechanical characterization is a strong asset

OUR OFFER

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster 
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, German language support, mentoring, and career development
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family-friendly policies 
• Access to on-campus fitness facilities and health promotion programs

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Shan Shi at shan.shi@tuhh.de - we are pleased to support you.