Erna K. Wieduwilt

The University of Duisburg-Essen is seeking a postdoctoral researcher in Biomolecular Simulations and Computational Chemistry to join the Faculty of Chemistry, Institute for Physical Chemistry, at the Essen campus. The position is part of the research group led by Prof. Dr. Erna K. Wieduwilt and focuses on computer simulations of transition-metal enzymes and their reactions, with a particular emphasis on enzyme–polymer interactions and reactivity. The successful candidate will contribute to the project “Boosting Enzymatic Plastic Recycling via Future Computing,” which is part of the NRW Return Programme. Key research areas include molecular dynamics simulations and quantum chemical calculations of enzyme–plastic complexes. The postdoc will also supervise students and doctoral researchers, participate in teaching, and handle some administrative tasks. The group values scientific curiosity, responsibility, and teamwork in an interdisciplinary and international environment. Applicants should have completed university studies (minimum eight semesters) in chemistry, physics, biology, or a related field, and hold a PhD degree with above-average results. Ideal candidates will have experience in molecular dynamics simulations of biomolecular systems, proficiency with simulation packages, high-performance computing clusters, and Linux, and preferably experience with QM/MM or QM calculations on transition-metal enzymes. Publication experience in the field is advantageous. Excellent English skills are required. The position is full-time (39 h 50 min per week), for two years, and is paid according to Grade 13 TV-L. The university offers a supportive, diverse, and family-friendly environment, with benefits such as childcare support, professional development, free parking, and access to sports and health programs. The University of Duisburg-Essen is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. To apply, submit a single PDF containing your motivation letter, CV with publications, diplomas, transcript, PhD certificate, and two recommendation letters, quoting reference 651-25, to [email protected] by January 5, 2026. For more information, visit the job ad and the Faculty of Chemistry research groups page.

PhD opening in Computational Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry, Institute for Physical Chemistry , University of Duisburg-Essen (Essen, Germany). The position is in the research group of Prof. Dr. Erna K. Wieduwilt and focuses on QM/MM calculations , metalloenzymes , machine learning , and the computational study of enzymatic reactions relevant to biomass and plastic degradation . The project is titled “Boosting Enzymatic Plastic Recycling via Future Computing” and is part of the NRW Return Programme. The successful candidate will work on evaluating quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics calculations on metalloenzymes and exploring whether machine learning can support predictions of enzymatic reactions in sustainable chemistry and computational biochemistry. Eligibility highlights: applicants should have completed a university degree in chemistry, biochemistry, cheminformatics, bioinformatics, biology, physics, or a related field with at least eight semesters / 270 ECTS (or equivalent) and a grade of at least good. Prior experience with QM calculations is helpful; QM/MM or QM-cluster experience is desirable but not mandatory. Experience with machine learning, QM software, HPC clusters, and Linux is an advantage. Strong English skills are required. Funding and conditions: the role is paid at Salary group 13 TV-L (gross 38,265–54,388€), runs for 36 months , and is described as a fully funded research position. The group also offers training, access to HPC resources, graduate courses, transferable skills training, and funded participation in workshops, summer schools, and conferences. Application deadline: 2026-09-25 . Apply by sending a single PDF with motivation letter, CV, diplomas, transcript of records, and at least two references to [email protected] , quoting reference 416-26 .

PhD opening in Computational Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen in Essen, Germany . The project focuses on investigating metalloenzymes using computational methods and exploring machine learning approaches to predict enzymatic reactions relevant to biomass degradation and plastic degradation . This is a research-oriented doctoral position for candidates interested in sustainable chemistry, enzyme modeling, and data-driven prediction methods. Location: Essen, Germany. Starting date: 1 December 2026. Application deadline: 25 September 2026. The post is shared by Erna K. Wieduwilt , Assistant Professor at the University of Duisburg-Essen. The announcement invites applications from suitable candidates and encourages sharing within relevant networks. How to apply: Read the full vacancy details via the university link and submit your application before the deadline. Use the official job posting for any additional instructions and required documents.