The Faculty of Chemistry at the Georg-August-Universität Göttingen welcomes applications for two Research Assistants (f/m/d) at the Theoretical Chemistry group (Group of Prof. Reinhard Maurer).
Position Details
- Location: University of Göttingen, Germany
- Duration: 2 years (full-time, 39.8 hours per week)
- Start Date: March 1, 2026 (or shortly after)
- Salary: Pay grade 13 TV-L (100%)
- Contact: Prof. Reinhard Maurer
Research Focus
We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to develop novel simulation methods for the study of chemical dynamics at electrified interfaces, particularly in the context of controlled electrodeposition. This effort is part of a large-scale project funded by the Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation.
In this role you will be:
- Performing first principles calculations
- Developing novel machine learning surrogate models for the description of chemical and structural dynamics in the context of photo-/electrocatalysis
Your Duties
- Conduct individual and collaborative research projects in theoretical chemistry and computational simulation
- Continually update your own knowledge and understanding in the field and translate knowledge of advances into research activity
- Write up research work for publication
- Contribute to preparing proposals and applications to external bodies for funding
- Present information on research progress and outcomes to team members and collaboration partners
- Contribute positively to a collegiate research environment by supporting students and engaging in group activities such as meetings and seminars
- Contribute to teaching of courses as defined in Section 31 of the Higher Education Act of Lower Saxony (NHG) and administering of examinations
Required Qualifications
- PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. chemistry, physics, materials science)
- Proven ability in research and evidence of high quality research outputs in relevant field
- Excellent knowledge of range of theoretical and computational methods in:
- Electronic structure theory
- Molecular simulation
- Condensed matter physics with relevance to the project
- Good programming skills
- Ability to communicate complex scientific results effectively
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team on complex research programs
- Ability to work collaboratively and effectively within an interdisciplinary and diverse team
Desirable Qualifications
- Prior experience in machine learning methods
What We Offer
- This post is designed to serve in fostering young researchers and scientists and give the successful applicant the opportunity to pursue a post-doctoral degree
- Join a large, international and interdisciplinary research group that provides a collaborative and supportive environment
- Work on cutting-edge research combining electronic structure theory, molecular and quantum dynamics methodology, and machine learning methods
- Opportunity to develop novel computational simulation methodology to study quantum phenomena at surfaces with applications ranging from photocatalysis, to nanotechnology and electrochemistry
- The position is suitable for part-time work
About the Group
In the Maurer group, we aim to develop computational simulation methodology to study quantum phenomena at surfaces with applications ranging from photocatalysis, to nanotechnology and electrochemistry. Our goal is to combine electronic structure theory, molecular and quantum dynamics methodology, and machine learning methods to achieve an accurate yet computationally feasible description of complex phenomena in materials and at solid/gas and solid/liquid interfaces.
Equal Opportunities
The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The mission of the University is to employ a greater number of severely disabled persons. Applications from severely disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference.
Application Process
Deadline: Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 20:00 CET
Application Materials: Submit your documents as a single PDF file via email to:
Email: r.maurer@chemie.uni-goettingen.de
Phone: +49 (0) 551 39-21810
Stellen-ID: 3197
For more information, visit the official job posting.