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 Microsystems Technology at Hamburg University of Technology for 1 February 2026 we are looking for a

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

to conduct research within project Device integration of materials and characterization (A4.3) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is full time and fixed-term until 31 January 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 research on the integration of active materials for acoustics in a microsystem as switchable acoustic devices with an acoustic waveguide based on np-Pd/H as a demonstrator. The major research question is how to achieve the transfer from a smart material with unique switchable property into a microsystem device. This objective poses technical challenges necessitating the research on novel technologies merging traditional 2D with 3D microfabrication. The objectives to be accomplished are: a) Incorporation of a thick nanoporous film into a microsystem, b) precise patterning both laterally and across the whole thickness of the functional layer, c) electrical contacting a microsystem with 3D topography, and d) ultrasound signal coupling. Furthermore, understanding the effects of processing on the properties of the metamaterials is essential. The research focuses on experimental process development, prototyping, and experimental validation. Novel 3D femtosecond laser based subtractive and additive approaches as well as high precision direct printing will be combined with traditional 2D microsystems technology. The project will cover all aspects from design, process technology, system integration to device characterization and testing.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• Process development in order to transfer the manufacturing of np-Pd to device level by integration of the nanoporous materials onto a wafer, including patterning of the switchable materials
• Investigation of different approaches for local control of the stimuli as electrical potential, H2 partial pressure, microstructure, and ligament size in order to achieve switchability
• Design, manufacturing and characterization of test devices based on the simulations from BlueMat partners
• System integration including generation and detection of acoustic wave for the implementation of an acoustic device
• 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 doctorate in the subject area Microsystems Technology, Electrical Engineering, Physics and a masters degree in said field

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Sound education in microfabrication using 3D heterogeneous system integration with hands-on skills
• Passion to develop new technologies and a determined approach to achieving goals
  
• 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

• Good knowledge in mechanics, particularly in acoustics and its characterization
• Proficiency of numerical calculations, simulations, and layout editor tools

OUR OFFER

• Scientific qualification 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. Hoc Khiem Trieu at trieu@tuhh.de - we are pleased to support you.