The Max Planck Society is Germany's premier research organization. The 84 Max Planck Institutes conduct research at highest levels, in the service of the general public, in the natural sciences, life sciences, social sciences, and the humanities.

The Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD). is located at the Science Campus Hamburg-Bahrenfeld and investigates dynamical phenomena within matter down to the elementary timescales of atomic and electronic motions, the femtosecond or attosecond timescale. The focus is on the use of short wavelength ultrafast probes, such as X-rays or electron pulses, which are capable of measuring atomic and electronic structures in matter of all kinds.

The MPSD currently consists of five scientific departments focusing on solid state physics and theoretical methods in these fields. The MPSD is a partner in the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL), collaborating with the Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), European XFEL (EuXFEL) and the University of Hamburg in the development of science based on the X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs).

Join the Cluster of Excellence “BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials” (www.tuhh.de/bluemat) and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water.

For the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) for February 1st 2026

We are looking for a

Research Associate (m/f/d) as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence

Your position

to conduct research on the project “Finding the quantum principles of water dynamics and reactions in confinement” as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is full time and fixed-term until 31 December 2027, with possibility of extension. The project will study the yet-unknown fundamental principles that govern the dynamics and the first steps of the hydrogen evolution reactions in confined water, from a nanoscopic quantum mechanical perspective, bridging into the mesoscopic scale.

The simulations involve joining density-functional theory calculations with modern machine-learning techniques to learn both the electronic structure (dielectric properties) and nuclear structure and dynamics (diffusion, reactions).

Your qualification

We are looking for highly qualified candidates with experience in the field of machine-learning for atomistic simulations, molecular dynamics techniques and code development. Experience with the codes LAMMPS, i-PI, FHI-aims and the MACE architecture are a plus. The candidate should have performed studies in the fields of Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science. We will select candidates that show proficiency in scientific programming and math, as well as a strong background in theoretical and computational solid-state physics, physical chemistry or chemical physics. You must be fluent in English (German is not required).

Our offer

We offer an innovative environment, which will give you the opportunity to develop your own ideas at the forefront of research. We offer a contract according to the German public pay scale (TVöD E13). The extension of the appointment will vary depending on the role of the candidate. Collaborations with experimental groups within the BlueMat cluster will be an integral part of the project.

Your application

**To apply, please complete the online application form**

Applications should include a letter of motivation, a curriculum vitae, a list of publications and two names of scientists that could write a letter of recommendation. Please submit your application in English only. The call for this position will close on December 14th, 2025. The earliest starting date is 01.02.2026, but later starting dates are possible.

The Max Planck Society and our group specifically strive for gender and diversity equality. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and we are committed to improve gender balance. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals.

For further information please contact Dr. Mariana Rossi:

email: mariana.rossi@mpsd.mpg.de

More information about the group activities can be obtained at:

https://www.mpsd.mpg.de/research/groups/sabia

and

@sabia-group.bsky.social