Junior Research Group Leader as postdoctoral researcher or academic councillor (f/m/d, Nr. 310-26)

We are a young, innovative university located in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis. We pride ourselves in outstanding research and teaching, think in terms of opportunities rather than limitations and develop ideas with a view to the future. Diversity is an integral part of our culture as we promote potential and are committed to upholding genuine equity in education.
The University of Duisburg-Essen, Faculty of Physics at the Campus Duisburg, invites applications for the position as a
Junior Research Group Leader as postdoctoral researcher or academic councillor (f/m/d, Nr. 310-26) TV-L 13 (gross 59.324 € - 84.319 €) or A13
In Prof. Heiko Wende's research group, we investigate magnetic hybrid systems. Our focus is on both fundamental magnetic interactions and applications for efficient energy conversion. We use element-specific methods such as X-ray absorption spectroscopy at synchrotron radiation sources and free-electron lasers. A wide variety of magnetic material systems are studied, such as magnetocaloric materials, permanent magnets, catalysts, magnetic nanoparticles, and molecular spin switches.

Your main tasks

• You will carry out research tasks in Prof. Wende's working group, particularly in the field of element-specific investigation of functional magnetic materials at large research facilities.
• In addition, you will be involved in the implementation and execution of courses and administrative tasks.
• Developing proposals for projects and securing external funding
• Providing academic guidance to a group of early-career researchers

Your profile

• a successfully completed PhD in physics
• experience
  • in investigating (nanoscale) magnetic systems at synchrotron radiation sources or free-electron-lasers using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES, EXAFS) and X-ray circular dichroism (XMCD)
  • in the synthesis of magnetic hybrid systems under ultra-high vacuum conditions (e.g., molecular beam epitaxy or sublimation of molecular systems
  • in the characterization of macroscopic and microscopic magnetic properties, for example, using magnetometry (SQUID, VSM), Mössbauer spectroscopy
• publication record, third-party funding
• confident manner, (project) management experience
• interest in research coordination and cooperation
• good knowledge of German or willingness to acquire good German language skills
• good knowledge of English
  The position offers opportunities for further academic qualification.

For appointment as an academic councillor:

The appointment requirements are governed by Section 41 of the Regulation on the Careers of Civil Servants in the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (Laufbahnverordnung - LVO) in conjunction with Section 44 (7) of the Law on Higher Education Institutions in the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (HG NRW). In addition, the general requirements under civil service law must be met. These include, in particular:

• German citizenship or citizenship of an EU member state
• Compliance with the age limit pursuant to Section 14 (3) et seq. of the Civil Service Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (LBG NRW): The career candidate must not yet have reached the age of 42 (or 45 for persons with severe disabilities). Grounds for deferral will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis -complete documentation (parental leave, caregiving leave, military or alternative service) must be provided
• Medical fitness, which must be verified by a medical examination conducted by a public health officer prior to hiring (this will be arranged by the university following the selection decision)

We offer you

• exciting development potential in the current, expanding field of magnetic hybrid systems
• the opportunity to make your own mark
• active cooperation between scientists in the fields of physics, chemistry, and engineering
• solid, modern equipment for manufacturing nanoscale magnetic structures
• the opportunity to pursue a postdoctoral qualification (Habilitation) with a wide range of support services
• family-friendly environment with childcare options for your children
• counseling for family caregiving responsibilities
• a broad range of continuing education and professional development opportunities, including individualized onboarding
• excellent public transportation access and free parking
• attractive sports and wellness programs (university sports)
• the option to work from home
  Start of employment: as soon as possible
  Duration of employment: 3 years
  Working time: 39 h 50 min (100%, part-time employment is possible)
  Application deadline: 12.08.2026
  Please send your application with the usual documents by e-mail, quoting reference number 310-26, to Prof. Dr. Heiko Wende, University Duisburg-Essen, Faculty of Physik, 47057 Duisburg, telephone +49 203/379-2838, e-mail heiko.wende@uni-due.de.
  Information about the faculty and the working group can be found at: https://www.uni-due.de/physik/wende
  The University of Duisburg-Essen pursues the goal of promoting the diversity of its members.
  https://www.uni-due.de/diversity/en
  In accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act, women with the same qualifications are given preferential consideration.
  Applications from suitable disabled persons and persons of equal status within the meaning of § 2 para. 3 SGB IX are desired.

Auszeichnungen