PhD student (m/f/d)

Division 1.9 - Chemical and Optical Sensing

To strengthen our team in the division “Chemical and Optical Sensing” in Berlin-Adlershof, starting as soon as possible, we are looking for a

PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of chemistry or comparable

Salary group 13 TVöD
Temporary contract for 36 months
The working time is 75 %

The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is a materials research organization in Germany. Our mission is to ensure safety in technology and chemistry. We perform research and testing in materials science, materials engineering and chemistry to improve the safety of products and processes. At BAM we do research that matters. Our work covers a broad array of topics in the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials, and chemistry and process engineering.

We are looking for talented people to join us.

Your responsibilities include:

• Development of a nanoparticle-based material for simple and rapid detection of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in an automated synthesis laboratory (self-driving lab)
• Automation of a synthesis process for dye-doped silica nanoparticles
• Automated functionalization of silica nanoparticles for surface modification with polymer shells
• Development of an automated synthesis for a fluorescent molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) layer for the detection of perfluorocarboxylic acids
• Development and implementation of an in-line characterization process for checking the quality and performance of the synthesized MIPs
• Implementation of a machine learning process for continuous performance optimization of the MIPs
• Participation in the project and close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
• Documentation and presentation of research results in scientific publications and at international conferences

Your qualifications:

• Successfully completed university degree (diploma/master's) in chemistry, materials science, or a comparable field
• Experience in preparative inorganic or organic chemistry or synthetic polymer chemistry
• Knowledge of instrumental analysis and optical characterization methods
• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken
• Experience with automated synthesis of materials/particles in self-driving labs and/or high-throughput methods is an advantage
• Ideally, experience with programming (Python), machine learning, and sensory systems
• Scientific curiosity, initiative, and high motivation to work in an innovative research environment
• Structured, analytical, and solution-oriented approach to work
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills, with enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Sense of responsibility, reliability, and a high degree of integrity
• Creative and conceptual thinking skills and the ability to independently develop new research approaches

We offer:

• Professional and interdisciplinary support through the BAM Graduate Academy, including skill-building and networking formats offered by the Menschen-Potentiale Qualification Programme
• Integration in the doctoral training network “Digitalization”
• Access to high-quality training and professional development opportunities on digitalization topics, including programming, research data management, AI applications, and scientific computing.
• Networking and exchange in interdisciplinary digitalization communities and at BAM digitalization events with the aim of developing innovative solutions and sharing knowledge with experts

Your application:

We welcome applications via the online application form by 31.12.2025. Alternatively, you can also send your application by post, quoting the reference number 218/25-1.9 to:

Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung
Referat Z.3 - Personal
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
GERMANY
www.bam.de

Dr. Gawlitza will be glad to answer any specific questions you may have. Please get in touch via the telephone number +49 30 8104-5938 and/or by email to Kornelia.Gawlitza@bam.de.

BAM promotes professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women. At the same time, we strive to reflect social diversity. Every application is therefore welcome, regardless of gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity.

In addition, BAM has set itself the goal of promoting the professional participation of people with severe disabilities. The fulfillment of the job requirements is considered on an individual basis. Severely disabled persons or persons of equal status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

The advertised position requires a low level of physical aptitude.