Junior Professorship (Tenure Track) for Experimental Solid-State Physics with Focus on Spin Physics at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz – Germany

Summary

The Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz invites applications for a Junior Professor (Tenure Track) position in Experimental Solid‑State Physics with a focus on Spin Physics. The role is a six‑year civil‑servant contract (W1 LBesG) with the prospect of conversion to a permanent W2 professorship. The candidate will conduct independent research, participate in coordinated research networks, collaborate with national partners, and teach master‑level physics courses (initially in English). The university emphasizes family‑friendly policies, professional development, and diversity. Applications must be submitted electronically by 30 October 2026 and include a range of supporting documents. Contact is Mathias Kläui for further information.

Key Facts

Department	Institute of Physics at the Faculty of Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science
Position Type	Junior Professor (Tenure Track)
Discipline	Experimental Solid-State Physics
Research Area	Spin Physics
Salary	Salary grade: W1 LBesG (civil servant with a fixed-term contract)
Funding	Salary (civil servant)
Contract Duration	Six years (initial tenure‑track period)
Language	English (required), German (optional later)
Deadline	2026-10-30
Required Documents	cover letter, curriculum vitae, certificates and diplomas, statement on teaching, list of independently funded projects, list of publications, research plan, up to three key publications
Employer Contact	Mathias Kläui, +49 6131 3923633

About the Project

The position focuses on experimental solid‑state spin physics, leveraging JGU’s advanced nanofabrication, spectroscopy, and low‑temperature facilities. The holder will contribute to and coordinate research within the Collaborative Research Center SFB/TRR 173 Spin+X, the TopDyn network, and other interdisciplinary projects, while actively seeking new funding opportunities and collaborations with partner institutes and the Max Planck Graduate Center.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent experimental research in spin physics related to solid‑state systems
• Participate in coordinated research networks such as SFB/TRR 173 Spin+X and TopDyn
• Collaborate with partner institutes and external research alliances
• Apply for future research projects and third‑party funding
• Teach master‑level physics courses (initially in English)
• Engage in academic self‑administration and departmental duties

Required Skills

• Demonstrated initial scientific achievements and high‑level independent research capability
• Teaching competence for master‑level courses
• Proficiency in English (required) and willingness to teach in German later
• Strong communication, teamwork, and proactive work attitude
• Ability to develop and manage research projects and funding proposals

Who Should Apply

Applicants should have demonstrated initial scientific achievements, the ability to conduct independent research at an international level, and a research focus on experimental spin physics in solid‑state systems. They must possess teaching skills, strong communication and teamwork abilities, English proficiency, and be willing to teach in German after evaluation. A proactive, responsible attitude and commitment to academic self‑administration are also required.

Benefits

• Extensive professional development and human‑resources training opportunities
• Active encouragement of applications from diverse backgrounds, including women and persons with disabilities

About the Employer

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is one of Germany’s largest comprehensive universities, located in the Rhine‑Main science region. The university hosts multidisciplinary teaching and research on a single campus near the city centre, fostering an international academic culture with students and staff from around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 30 October 2026.

What is the length of the initial contract?

The initial tenure‑track contract lasts six years.

Is German language required for teaching?

Teaching is initially in English; German teaching may be required after the tenure evaluation.