Postdoctoral Researcher in Theoretical Description of Light-Driven Catalysis in Soft Matter at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany
Position Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Postdoctoral Researcher / Junior Research Group Leader |
| Research Area | Theoretical Description of Light-Driven Catalysis in Soft Matter |
| University | Friedrich Schiller University Jena |
| Country | Germany |
| Location | Jena |
| Contract | Full-time, initially 2 years |
| Start Date | January 2027 |
| Possible Extension | Until June 2030 |
| Salary | TV-L E13 |
| Required Degree | PhD |
| Key Expertise | Multiscale modelling, soft matter, hybrid materials |
| Deadline | 30 October 2026 |
| Vacancy ID | 235/2026 |
About the Research Project
The position is part of TRR 234 “CataLight,” a highly interdisciplinary collaborative research centre investigating light-driven catalytic processes in soft matter environments.
The research combines experimental, analytical, and theoretical approaches to understand how catalytically active building blocks behave within dynamic soft matter systems. The successful candidate will investigate structure–dynamics–function relationships in soft matter materials containing functional building blocks.
A particular focus will be placed on the multiscale theoretical description of catalytically active building blocks in dynamic soft matter environments.
The successful researcher will become an integral member of the CataLight consortium and will have access to the research network, infrastructure, and expertise available across participating institutions.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
Develop an independent research profile at the interface of theoretical chemistry and macromolecular chemistry.
Independently design and conduct interdisciplinary research projects.
Develop and apply advanced theoretical and multiscale modelling approaches.
Supervise and mentor graduate students and doctoral researchers.
Contribute to performance evaluation and career development of supervised researchers.
Acquire and manage external research funding from public funding agencies and industry.
Take responsibility for project budgets and reporting.
Participate in teaching at the Master's level.
Collaborate actively with researchers across the CataLight consortium.
Co-supervise PhD researchers and contribute to the development of the research network.
Eligibility and Required Qualifications
Applicants should have:
A PhD in theoretical chemistry, theoretical materials science, or a closely related field.
Demonstrated experience in multiscale modelling of soft matter, hybrid materials, or related research areas.
Strong research capabilities and the ability to independently develop research projects.
Excellent written and spoken English and German language skills.
An independent, goal-oriented, and interdisciplinary approach to research.
Willingness and ability to work effectively in an international research environment.
The position is particularly suitable for researchers who want to establish an independent research profile while working within a large interdisciplinary collaborative research centre.
Salary and Benefits
Friedrich Schiller University Jena offers remuneration according to the German Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L), salary scale E13, depending on the candidate's qualifications.
Additional benefits include:
Full-time employment at 40 hours per week.
Initial two-year fixed-term contract.
Possibility of extension until 30 June 2030, subject to continued funding.
Flexible working hours.
Family-friendly working conditions.
Company pension scheme through VBL.
German capital-forming benefits (VL).
Mentoring from experienced scientific supervisors.
Opportunities for professional development and further training.
30 days of annual vacation, plus two additional days off on 24 and 31 December.
Opportunities to participate in the wider CataLight research network and its scientific activities.
Candidates with severe disabilities will receive preference where qualifications and suitability are equal.
Why Consider This Position?
This opportunity is particularly relevant for researchers working in theoretical chemistry, computational materials science, soft matter, molecular modelling, and light-driven catalysis who are looking to move toward greater research independence.
The position combines postdoctoral research with elements of junior group leadership, including supervision, grant acquisition, teaching, and development of an independent research profile. Its interdisciplinary nature also provides opportunities to collaborate with researchers working across theoretical, experimental, and analytical approaches.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the online application system of Friedrich Schiller University Jena.
Application deadline: 30 October 2026
APPLY HERE: Official Job Application Portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the position offered at Friedrich Schiller University Jena?
The university is offering a Postdoctoral Researcher / Junior Research Group Leader position focused on the Theoretical Description of Light-Driven Catalysis in Soft Matter.
2. What is the research focus of the position?
The research focuses on light-driven catalytic processes in soft matter, with particular emphasis on multiscale modelling and understanding structure–dynamics–function relationships in dynamic soft matter environments.
3. What qualifications are required?
Applicants must hold a PhD in theoretical chemistry, theoretical materials science, or a related field and have experience in multiscale modelling of soft matter, hybrid materials, or related areas.
4. Is this a full-time position?
Yes. The position is full-time (100%), with a working schedule of 40 hours per week.
5. What is the duration of the contract?
The position is initially offered for two years, starting in January 2027, with the possibility of extension until 30 June 2030, subject to continued funding.
6. What salary and benefits are offered?
The position is paid according to TV-L salary scale E13, depending on qualifications. Benefits include flexible working hours, a company pension scheme, mentoring and training opportunities, and 30 days of annual vacation plus two additional days off on 24 and 31 December.
7. Will the researcher supervise students?
Yes. Responsibilities include supervising and mentoring graduate and doctoral researchers, with opportunities to co-supervise PhD researchers and contribute to their professional development.
8. Is teaching required?
Yes. The successful candidate will participate in Master's-level teaching.
9. What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 30 October 2026. Applicants should apply through the university's official online application system and refer to Vacancy ID 235/2026.
10. Who is this position best suited for?
This opportunity is particularly suitable for researchers with expertise in theoretical chemistry, computational materials science, multiscale modelling, soft matter, or hybrid materials who want to develop an independent research profile and gain experience in research leadership.
Comments
Post a Comment