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 Professorship of Journalism and Communication Research for the earliest possible start date we are looking for a

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

to conduct accompanying communication research on BlueMat as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is part-time (75%) and fixed-term until 31 December 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).

In this role, you will investigate how a large, interdisciplinary research consortium works together on the inside, treating the Cluster of Excellence itself as a real-world case study for communication research. You will study how its teams collaborate, coordinate their work and transfer knowledge across disciplines. You will turn empirical findings into evidence-based strategies that can improve information flow within and between BlueMat teams. This position offers an ideal environment to pursue a PhD while contributing directly to the Cluster’s success as an interdisciplinary collaboration.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• Investigate communicative practices within selected BlueMat research units, focusing on internal exchange, coordination routines and decision-making processes
• Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative empirical studies (e.g. interviews, observation, document analysis) on internal exchange within and between BlueMat teams
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners across research areas to translate findings into evidence-based recommendations for the broader cluster program
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public (e.g. through presentations at conferences and workshops and participation in meetings)

YOUR PROFILE

Essential qualification

• Completed university studies (master’s degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of Communication Studies, Organisational Communication, Organisation Studies, Media Studies or a related discipline in the social sciences with a strong empirical background

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Strong expertise in qualitative social science methods
• Strong interest in communication science, organisational communication and/or science communication and in pursuing a PhD in this field
• Excellent command of German and English, both written and spoken
• Curiosity and strong teamwork as well as communication skills for working in interdisciplinary teams

• In-depth knowledge of science communication and the organisation of large research consortia
• Experience working in or with research institutes, universities or comparable organisations
• Interest in, or basic familiarity with, the natural sciences and engineering
• Knowledge of quantitative methods is an advantage
  
  

OUR OFFER

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster 
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, 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

Got questions before applying? Contact Prof. Dr. Christopher Buschow at christopher.buschow@tuhh.de – we’re happy to support you.