Postdoctoral Researcher / Junior Research Group Leader in Theoretical Description of Light-Driven Catalysis in Soft Matter at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany.

Summary

The Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry at Friedrich Schiller University Jena invites applications for a full‑time postdoctoral researcher or junior research group leader. The role is part of the Collaborative Research Centre TRR 234 "CataLight" and focuses on theoretical description of light‑driven catalysis in soft‑matter systems. The position starts in January 2027 with an initial two‑year fixed term, extendable to June 2030. Responsibilities include developing an independent research profile, supervising students, acquiring external funding, teaching at master level, and participating in the CataLight network. Candidates must hold a PhD in theoretical chemistry or related fields, have experience in multiscale modelling, and be proficient in English (German also expected). Remuneration follows the TV‑L pay scale 13 with a special annual payment, and the package includes flexible hours, mentoring, pension scheme, and 32 days of leave.

Key Facts

Department	Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry
Position Type	Postdoctoral Researcher / Junior Research Group Leader
Discipline	Theoretical chemistry
Research Area	Theoretical Description of Light-Driven Catalysis in Soft Matter
Degree Required	PhD
Salary	Remuneration is based on TV-L pay scale 13, depending on personal qualifications, plus a special annual payment under the collective agreement
Funding	Salary (TV-L pay scale 13) plus special annual payment
Contract Duration	Fixed term of two years, extendable until June 30, 2030
Language	English (required), German (expected)
Deadline	2026-10-30

About the Project

The project, embedded in the TRR 234 "CataLight" collaborative research centre, investigates how light can drive catalytic processes within soft‑matter environments. It aims to elucidate structure‑dynamics‑function relationships and to create multiscale theoretical models of catalytically active building blocks, bridging molecular to mesoscopic scales.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop an independent research profile at the interface of theoretical and macromolecular chemistry
• Design and conduct interdisciplinary research projects
• Supervise and mentor graduate students and doctoral researchers
• Acquire and manage external funding, including budget responsibility and reporting
• Participate in master’s‑level teaching
• Engage in the activities of the CataLight research network

Required Skills

• PhD in theoretical chemistry, theoretical materials science, or a related field
• Experience in multiscale modelling of soft matter, hybrid materials, or related areas
• Excellent written and spoken English
• German language skills
• Independent, goal‑oriented, interdisciplinary working style
• Willingness to work in an international team

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a PhD in theoretical chemistry, theoretical materials science or a closely related discipline, who have experience in multiscale modelling of soft matter or hybrid materials, and who are fluent in English (German skills advantageous) are encouraged to apply. The role suits researchers seeking to develop an independent profile, supervise students, and engage in international, interdisciplinary collaborations.

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Mentoring and training opportunities
• Capital‑forming benefits
• Company pension scheme
• 30 days of annual leave
• Two additional days off on December 24 and 31

About the Employer

Friedrich Schiller University Jena’s Institute of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry participates in the Collaborative Research Centre TRR 234 "CataLight", focusing on light‑driven catalysis in soft‑matter environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the position start?

January 2027

What is the application deadline?

October 30, 2026

What type of contract is offered?

Fixed term of two years, extendable until June 30, 2030

What are the language requirements?

Excellent English is required; German skills are also expected

What benefits are provided?

Flexible working hours, mentoring, training, a company pension scheme, 30 days of annual leave plus two extra days on December 24 and 31