Technical University of Munich
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5 days ago
PhD in Materials Science / Polymer Physics on Cellulose and Bio-based Polymers Technical University of Munich in Germany
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
Three-year employment contract at 65% TV-L E13 funded by an ERC Grant (ERC StG). The position includes access to modern laboratories and support for international research collaborations, conferences, and professional development.
Deadline
Nov 20, 2026
Country
Germany
University
Technical University of Munich
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About this position
Technical University of Munich (TUM) is advertising a PhD position in Materials Science / Polymer Physics within the Professorship for Particle and Fiber Technology. The project, LaserCell, is funded by an ERC Starting Grant and focuses on the processing of bio-based polymers such as cellulose and proteins from renewable feedstocks and waste streams.
The research aims to develop sustainable processes that convert these materials into high-performance fibers and functional materials. A central scientific challenge is cellulose processing: because cellulose decomposes before melting, the project explores an innovative molecular-level approach using resonant excitation to disrupt cohesive interactions and reshape cellulose structure. The work is therefore highly relevant to polymer physics, materials science, biopolymers, and sustainable materials engineering.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in materials science, polymer physics, polymer engineering, materials engineering, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of polymer structure, crystallinity, molecular interactions, and chain dynamics, plus hands-on experience in experimental materials research. Skills in mechanical testing, rheology, spectroscopy (FTIR, Raman), or structural characterization (XRD, SAXS/WAXS) are advantageous.
The position is based at TUM Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability in Germany. It offers a three-year employment contract at 65% TV-L E13, access to modern laboratories, and opportunities for international collaborations, conferences, and professional development. TUM also highlights an inclusive hiring policy and encourages applications from women and candidates with disabilities.
How to apply: submit one single PDF in English containing your CV with publications, a one-page motivation letter, degree certificates and transcripts, and contact details of two referees. Send the application by email to [email protected]. The deadline is 2026-11-20, and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Funding details
Three-year employment contract at 65% TV-L E13 funded by an ERC Grant (ERC StG). The position includes access to modern laboratories and support for international research collaborations, conferences, and professional development.
What's required
A Master's degree in materials science, polymer physics, polymer engineering, materials engineering, or a closely related field is required. Applicants should have a solid understanding of polymer physics, especially polymer structure, crystallinity, molecular interactions, and chain dynamics. Hands-on experimental materials research experience is expected, including the ability to design experiments, analyze results critically, and troubleshoot independently. Experience with mechanical testing, rheology, spectroscopy such as FTIR or Raman, or structural characterization such as XRD or SAXS/WAXS is an advantage. Strong scientific curiosity, critical thinking, self-motivation, initiative, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team are desired.
How to apply
Prepare one single PDF in English containing your CV with publications, a one-page motivation letter, degree certificates and academic transcripts, and contact details of two referees. Email the application to [email protected]. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
More information can be found here
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