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01 Oct 2026 for 3 years

16 Aug 2026

yes

Chemistry, Materials Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary research team at the Institute of Physical Chemistry. This position offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in the field of biohybrid materials.

Our research focuses on the development of functional protein-based materials and the investigation of their synthesis, processing, and performance, for example, for advanced biomedical and biotechnological applications.

In this position, you will focus on the production of protein-based adsorber materials, from recombinant protein expression and purification to the optimization and scale-up of robust and reproducible synthesis protocols.

Within our research group the successful candidate will be responsible for:

Experimental Research

• produce and purify recombinant proteins using established molecular biology and biochemical techniques
• synthesize protein-based materials under varying preparation conditions and investigate how synthesis parameters influence material properties and functional performance
• establish robust and reproducible synthesis protocols and transfer laboratory-scale procedures to larger production scales
• carry out functional performance and adsorption experiments in collaboration with project partners

Data Analysis and Process Development

• analyze experimental data and evaluate the relationship between synthesis conditions, material properties, and functional performance
• use complementary characterization data generated within the project to support material optimization and process development
• maintain accurate and detailed records of all research activities and findings

Method Development

• develop and optimize methodologies for the preparation of protein-based materials
• improve and standardize experimental workflows to enhance reproducibility, robustness, and scalability

Collaboration and Communication

• work collaboratively within the group and with interdisciplinary project partners, coordinating with colleagues performing advanced material characterization
• present research findings in group meetings, departmental seminars, and international conferences
• prepare manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to project reporting across collaborating work packages

Mentoring

• mentor undergraduate and master's students involved in related research projects

Compliance and Safety

• ensure compliance with safety regulations and ethical standards and actively participate in laboratory safety training

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Candidates are required to have:

• master’s degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Biotechnology, or a closely related field
• practical laboratory experience in protein chemistry, biomolecular materials, or related areas
• experience with recombinant protein production and purification methods (e.g., expression in E. coli, chromatographic purification such as FPLC) is highly desirable
• experience in the preparation and optimization of functional materials, biomaterials, or related systems is advantageous
• strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to design and evaluate experiments independently
• interest in developing reproducible and scalable synthesis workflows for protein-based materials
• ability to analyze experimental data and integrate results from complementary characterization approaches
• good organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate experimental records
• good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary research team
• excellent proficiency in English, both written and oral; knowledge of German is beneficial but not mandatory

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to pursue a PhD at the University of Hamburg in Chemistry.