Job description
 
                  
                       
                        
                         
Research Associate for the Project “Cluster of Excellence ‚CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter‘- Molecular structural dynamics investigated with Coulomb explosion.” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG
InstitutionCluster of Excellence „CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter“ (photon and nanosciences)
Salary level
Start date01.01.2026 or later, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline30.10.2025
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities
Duties include academic services in the project named above.
Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications.
The main task of the project is to develop novel data analysis and simulation techniques for X-ray induced Coulomb-explosion imaging and apply these to data recorded with the reaction microscope at the SQS scientific instrument at European XFEL and possibly other lightsources.
This includes:
 development of generic analysis and visualization methods (including artificial intelligence and machine learning tools) that are independent of specific samplesfull analysis of incomplete, multi-dimensional data sets of complex moleculesinversion procedures to establish a direct link between (incomplete) momentum space data and real-space molecular structure through advanced modellingextension of these methods to photoinduced dynamicscapturing nuclear quantum fluctuations in electronic first-principles atomistic simulationspushing the boundaries of Coulomb explosion towards larger systems, molecules with no unique markers, and shorter pulse durationsYour profile
A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.
The successful candidate should have obtained a PhD degree in physics and should have demonstrated experience in all of the following areas:
 analysis of multi-coincidence data sets obtained with ion momentum spectroscopy, particularly incomplete data for larger systemsapplication of statistics and machine learning tools, including the specific challenges encountered in Coulomb explosion imagingexcellent programming skillssimulation of Coulomb explosion of complex molecules irradiated by X-ray free-electron laser pulsesproficiency in the representation of complex, multidimensional data sets, including interactive representationsWe offer
Reliable remuneration based on wage agreementsContinuing education opportunitiesUniversity pensionsAttractive locationFlexible working hoursWork-life balance opportunitiesHealth management, EGYM WellpassEducational leave30 days of vacation per annumUniversität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany.
Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us.
Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world.
We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.
The University of Hamburg is committed to equity.
Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace.
We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.
Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.
                      
 
                        
                        
                        
                        
                        
                          Required Skill Profession
 
                           
                          
                          Life Scientists