Academic Researcher (f/m/d) Full-time

Research Scientist

IAM-AWP conducts research and development on metallic and non-metallic materials as well as their composites. Material-physical structure–microstructure–property relationships are scientifically and technologically investigated using numerous modern analysis and simulation methods. The behavior of materials in components, coatings, and structural parts is also examined.

Your Tasks

As part of your position, you will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Application of FIB-SEM systems for the highly precise micro- and nanoscale characterization of metallic materials
• Use of FIB techniques in transmission electron microscopy for the highly precise characterization of neutron- and ion-irradiated metallic materials on the micro- and nanoscale
• Sample preparation and subsequent analysis using transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
• Planning and execution of scientific projects
  • Evaluation, interpretation, and documentation of results
  • Presentation of findings

Your Profile

You have:

• a university degree (Master's) in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or Materials Engineering, along with a completed doctorate (PhD)
• excellent specialist knowledge and solid practical experience in sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
• good knowledge of operating transmission electron microscopes for the detailed characterization of materials

We Offer

• Science for Impact: Engage with topics of societal relevance — in an excellent scientific environment that enables change.
• Flexible Working Hours: Take advantage of flexible‑hours schemes, remote‑work options, part‑time models, and a 30‑day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work‑life balance.
• Career‑Building and Developmental Opportunities: We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing‑education options, and personalized support, thereby fostering your individual growth.
• Family-friendliness: The “KIT‑Family +” program assists you in reconciling work and family life by offering childcare services, holiday activities, a parent‑child office space, and assistance with caring for relatives.
• Stay Healthy: Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body, Mind and Soul,” we promote your well‑being through fitness classes, mental‑health programmes, and regular preventive health examinations.
• Individualised Extra Benefits: Enjoy a corporate pension (VBL), a €25 monthly contribution toward a JobTicket BW, plus a broad selection of cultural and recreational programmes.

Job location: Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen (and Karlsruhe) Salary: Salary category 13 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications. Contract duration: 3 years

Contact person in line-management Dr. Michael Klimenkov michael.klimenkov@kit.edu +49 721 608-22903

If you have general questions about the application process, please contact Dominik Meschar Personalservice (PSE) dominik.meschar@kit.edu +49 721 608-25029

At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We prefer to balance the number of employees (f/m/d). Therefore we kindly ask female applicants to apply for this job. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal. Application up to: 2026.06.22 Job posting number: 231/2026