Research Assistant/Associate (f/m/d) Diffusion Dynamics of Water on Nanoparticle Surfaces Using Neutron Spectroscopy

Research Assistant/Associate (f/m/d) Diffusion Dynamics of Water on Nanoparticle Surfaces Using Neutron Spectroscopy

Application deadline: 30/11/2026

Institution

Chair and Institute of Crystallography

Our Profile

At the Institute of Crystallography at RWTH Aachen University, we investigate the structure and dynamics of nanoscale solid-liquid interfaces, which play a significant role in catalysis, energy, nanomaterials, and our environment. To gain novel insights, we use and develop modern X-ray and neutron scattering methods, both in the laboratory and at major research facilities worldwide. In our newly renovated, climate-controlled laboratories, we synthesize and characterize material systems relevant to real-world applications. A fundamental understanding of interfacial processes is essential for improving modern functional materials in practical applications.

Project description

In this project, our goal is to investigate the diffusion dynamics of water and organic molecules on the surfaces of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are used, for example, in catalysis and biomedicine. To measure the interesting dynamic processes of hydrogen-containing molecules as a function of humidity and temperature, we use quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) at major international research facilities. The project is part of the Cluster of Excellence Fuel Science Center 2, where interdisciplinary research is conducted to optimize catalytic processes and develop novel fuels or platform chemicals.

The work environment

• The position is offered as a regular employment contract.

• There is an opportunity to pursue a PhD.

• Travel to major international research institutions and conferences.

• Access to a strong research network at RWTH Aachen University and Forschungszentrum Jülich, including the Ernst Ruska Center for Electron Microscopy.

• Opportunity for flexible work arrangements.

• Individual supervision and regular research group meetings.

• Newly renovated laboratories and offices.

• Professional development and networking opportunities within the Fuel Science Center 2 Cluster of Excellence.

Your Profile

• University degree (Master or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, materials science or related field of study.

• Experience in wet chemical laboratory work, physicochemical characterization and preferred X-ray or neutron scattering.

• Knowledge in scientific programming (Origin, Igor Pro, Python).

• High motivation for further education, independent and goal-oriented work.

• Very good command of English (written and spoken), knowledge of German desirable.

• In addition, you are interested in further scientific qualification (PhD).

Your Duties and Responsibilities

As a PhD student you will work on the research project with the tasks:

• Synthesis of iron oxide / metal oxide nanoparticles with different ligands and sizes, as well as sample preparation for experiments at neutron facilities.

• Characterization of the nanoparticles with e.g. TGA, IR, vapor sorption, or XRD.

• Experiments at neutron sources.

• Analysis and interpretation of the experimental data, e.g. with Python, Igor Pro, Origin.

• Publication of results in scientific journals and presentation at conferences.

• Collaborations and participation in the Cluster of Excellence Fuel Science Center 2.

What

We Offer

The successful candidate will be employed under a regular employment contract. The position is to be filled at the earliest possible date and offered for a fixed term of one year. It is planned to extend the contract for another two years. The fixed-term employment is possible as it constitutes one of the fixed-term options of the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (German Act on Fixed-term Scientific Contracts). This is a part-time contract position. The standard weekly hours will be 26,55 hours. The successful candidate has the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree in this position. The salary is based on the German public service salary scale (TV-L). The position corresponds to a pay grade of EG 13 TV-L.

About us

RWTH is proud to be certified as a family-friendly university. As part of our Campus Health initiative, RWTH offers a wide range of health, counseling, and prevention services, including university sports. Employees under collective bargaining agreements and civil servants also benefit from a comprehensive continuing education program and the option to purchase a job ticket for convenient commuting. All University employees also have access to the Corporate Benefits online platform, which offers discounts on a wide range of products and services from participating companies. RWTH is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates and make employment decisions without regard to national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability or age. RWTH is especially committed to supporting the advancement of women in academia. When women are underrepresented in a university unit, preferential consideration will be given to female applicants among candidates of equal merit and professional standing, unless compelling reasons favor another individual. In keeping with RWTH’s commitment to equality of opportunity, we ask that you do not include a photo with your application. Please refer to https://www.rwth-aachen.de/applicant-privacy-policy for information about how we collect and process applicant data in accordance with Articles 13 and 14 of the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Number V000011656

Application deadline 30/11/2026

Mailing Address

RWTH Aachen University Lehrstuhl und Institut für Kristallographie Secretariat Diana Verley Jägerstraße 17-19 D - 52066 Aachen

Email

Applicants are invited to submit their applications via email. For data protection reasons, however, we recommend sending applications via mail.

Contact

Secretariat Diana Verley

Work Phone: +49 (0)241 80-96900

Contact

Prof. Dr. Mirijam Zobel

Work Phone: +49 (0)241 80-96916