Postdoctoral Researcher (f/m/d) – Materials Science Full-time NEW

Institute for Applied Materials – Energy Storage Systems (IAM-ESS), Group Fusion Ceramics

As part of your work, you will independently conduct the development and characterisation of lithium-containing ceramic materials for future fusion applications. This includes both the conceptual planning and the experimental implementation and scientific evaluation of the research activities.

Your responsibilities will include, in particular:

• Study for the identification and selection of ceramic compounds with high lithium density and a possibly low neutron absorption at the same time, including the evaluation of suitable synthesis routes.
• Synthesis and further development of selected ceramic materials.
• Experimental characterisation of fundamental material and fusion-relevant properties, including phase stability with respect to lithium burn-up, thermal stability, and potential interactions with structural materials.
• Development, selection, and optimisation of suitable shaping and sintering processes, taking into account the technological requirements for future industrial scale-up.
• Presentation of research results, for example at workshops and international conferences.
• Preparation of scientific reports and publications in peer-reviewed international journals

Your Profile

• Excellent university degree with a completed doctorate (PhD) in Materials Science or, where appropriate, a comparable discipline such as Chemistry (with a focus on inorganic chemistry).
• In-depth knowledge and practical experience in the fabrication and characterisation of ceramics.
• Independent, structured and responsible working style, combined with a high level of reliability.
• Excellent written and spoken English skills are required. Good German language skills are considered an asset.
• A high level of motivation, strong communication skills, intercultural competence, the ability to work effectively as part of a team, and an enthusiasm for working in a multidisciplinary research environment complete your profile.

We Offer

• 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.
• 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.
• Flexible Working Hours: Take advantage of flexible-hours schemes, remote-work options, and a 30-day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work-life balance.
• Science for Impact: Engage with topics of societal relevance — in an excellent scientific environment that enables change.
• Career-Building and Developmental Opportunities: We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing-education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth.
• Stay Healthy: Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body, Mind and Soul,” we promote your well-being through fitness classes and mental-health 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. Julia Leys julia.leys@kit.edu

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

Application up to: 2026.10.07 Job posting number: 385/2026