Research Associate (m/f/d) in Polymer Engineering with Opportunity to Pursue PhD – University of Bayreuth, Germany

Summary

The University of Bayreuth’s Chair of Polymer Engineering seeks a Research Associate to join a publicly funded DFG project on recyclable fibre‑reinforced composites. The role focuses on developing cleavable epoxy resin systems, investigating structure‑property‑recycling relationships, and applying machine‑learning models for material prediction. Collaboration with industrial partners and a dynamic research team is emphasized, and the position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD within the project. Candidates must hold a Diplom or Master’s degree in a relevant engineering or science discipline, possess strong English skills, and demonstrate motivation for independent scientific research. The appointment provides professional development, a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment, and family‑friendly university support.

Key Facts

Department	Chair of Polymer Engineering
Position Type	Research Associate
Discipline	Polymer Engineering
Research Area	Recyclable Fibre-Reinforced Composites
Degree Required	Diplom or Master's
Funding	Publicly funded DFG project
Language	English
Required Documents	complete application documents
Employer Contact	Florian Max ([email protected]; Tel. 0921/55-7568)

About the Project

The DFG‑funded project aims to create recyclable fibre‑reinforced composites by developing novel cleavable epoxy resin systems. It will explore how resin chemical structures affect material properties and the recycling behaviour of both matrix and fibres. The research combines experimental work, material characterisation, and data‑driven approaches, including machine‑learning models, to predict and tailor future material performance, while collaborating closely with industrial partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and formulate cleavable epoxy resin systems
• Investigate structure‑property‑recycling relationships
• Characterise matrix and reinforcing fibres recycling and reuse behaviour
• Apply machine learning and digital models for materials prediction
• Collaborate with industrial partners and the research team

Required Skills

• Strong interest in scientific research in polymer engineering
• Highly motivated, proactive and able to work independently
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Very good command of written and spoken English
• Additional experience in computer science, digitalisation or sustainability is an advantage

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a Diplom or Master’s degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science or Data Science, who have experience or strong interest in polymer science, are highly motivated, can work independently, and have excellent English communication skills.

Benefits

• Opportunities for professional and personal development
• Work in a dynamic research team at a leading polymer science centre
• Diverse tasks in a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment
• Innovative position combining fundamental and applied research
• Extensive collaboration with industrial partners
• Opportunity to pursue a PhD within the DFG project
• Family‑friendly university (Best Practice Club ‘Family at Universities’)
• HRK Audit Internationalisation certified
• Strong encouragement for women and applicants with children
• Preferential consideration for persons with severe disabilities if equally qualified

About the Employer

The University of Bayreuth is a research‑oriented university internationally recognised for polymer science. The Chair of Polymer Engineering, led by Prof. Holger Ruckdäschel, is a nationally and internationally recognised centre with a state‑of‑the‑art laboratory environment and extensive industrial collaborations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a PhD degree required to apply?

No, a Diplom or Master’s degree is required; the position offers an opportunity to pursue a PhD.

What language proficiency is required?

Very good command of written and spoken English is required.

Who should I contact for more information?

Florian Max ([email protected]; Tel. 0921/55-7568).

Is the position funded?

Yes, it is a publicly funded DFG project (TV-L, PhD opportunity).