PhD Candidate Position in Sustainable Nanomaterials – Leibniz Junior Research Group, IFW Dresden Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden in Germany

The Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden (IFW Dresden) is a leading research institution dedicated to the development of new and sustainable materials and technologies. With a diverse team of over 500 employees from more than 40 nations, IFW Dresden fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, supporting young scientists and engineers in their academic and professional growth. The institute is committed to work-life balance and regularly undergoes the audit berufundfamilie® to ensure family-friendly policies.

The Leibniz Junior Research Group Sustainable Nanomaterials, part of the Institute for Materials Chemistry at IFW Dresden, is offering a PhD Candidate Position (m/f/div) for a fixed term of 36 months on a part-time basis (67%). The research will be conducted within the Dresden Cluster of Excellence REC² – “Responsible Electronics in the Climate Change Era,” focusing on the reusability and recycling of nanomaterials and their electronic components. Key tasks include the chemical synthesis of functional, semiconducting nanomaterials, processing and fabrication of functional layers, heterostructures, and electronic devices such as solar cells and photodetectors. The project emphasizes developing methods for controlled assembly and disassembly of nanomaterials while preserving their properties, as well as spectroscopic, microscopic, structural, and electrical characterization of materials and devices.

Applicants should hold a completed degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a related field. Experience in the synthesis and characterization of low-dimensional nanomaterials, electronic components, and the reuse or recycling of functional materials is highly desirable. Candidates must demonstrate good written and spoken English skills and a strong motivation to pursue a doctorate as part of part-time employment. The position offers a vibrant interdisciplinary team, state-of-the-art research infrastructure, opportunities for collaboration within the REC² Cluster at TU Dresden, and a modern workplace on the TU Dresden campus. Additional benefits include flexible working hours, 30 days of vacation per year, company pension scheme (VBL), job ticket/Germany ticket benefits, special annual payment, capital-forming benefits, company health management, discounted sports offers from the Dresden University Sports Center, further training opportunities, language courses, and access to a company restaurant.

The employment contract and remuneration are based on the collective bargaining law for the public service of the federal states (TV-L EG 13). IFW Dresden encourages applications from qualified women and individuals with severe disabilities, in line with its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Proof of disability status should be included with application documents.

To apply, submit your application as a single PDF file (other formats will not be accepted) including your CV, list of publications, motivation letter describing research career goals, skills and experience, and copies of certificates, citing reference number 037-26-3400, by 01.06.2026 to [email protected]. For further information, contact Dr. Fabian Paulus at [email protected]. The direct application link is provided below.

Apply here