PhD Student (m/f/d) in Materials Science / Geosciences - Job Opportunity at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH

Berlin, Germany
Contract
Entry-level
Posted: April 18, 2025
Hybrid
EUR 47,000 - 52,000 annually based on TVöD-Bund pay scale for doctoral researchers in German research institutions

Benefits

Comprehensive Pension Plan (VBL)
30 Days Annual Leave
Public Transport Subsidy (Deutschlandticket)
Flexible Working Hours
Hybrid Work Options
Sports and Fitness Programs
Work-Life Balance Support
Career Development through HZB Graduate Center
International Network Access

Key Responsibilities

Development and synthesis of novel chalcogenide semiconductor compounds
Structural and optoelectronic characterization of semiconductor materials
Publication of research findings in scientific journals
Presentation of research results at international conferences
Contribution to renewable energy materials development

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in Materials Science or Geosciences

Experience

Research experience in crystallography and diffraction methods

Required Skills

Crystallography expertise X-ray diffraction methods Data analysis Complex experimental planning Research methodology Teamwork abilities Excellent communication skills
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Growing demand for sustainable energy materials research positions as EU accelerates renewable energy transition Increased focus on non-toxic chalcogenide materials reflecting environmental regulations Rising investment in photovoltaic research aligned with European Green Deal objectives

Role Significance

Typically part of a 5-8 person research group within larger department structure
Entry-level research position with significant autonomous research responsibility and potential for academic publication impact

Key Projects

Development of novel semiconductor materials for thin-film photovoltaics Structure-property relationship studies in energy materials International collaborative research initiatives

Success Factors

Strong foundation in crystallography and materials characterization Ability to work in international research environment Publication and presentation skills Independent research capability while maintaining team integration

Market Demand

High demand with strong growth trajectory due to renewable energy sector expansion and EU climate initiatives

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced crystallography knowledge essential for understanding material structure-property relationships Experimental design expertise crucial for novel materials development Data analysis capabilities fundamental for research outcomes

Beneficial Skills

Programming skills for data analysis automation Project management abilities Grant writing experience Additional spectroscopic characterization techniques

Unique Aspects

Focus on defect-tolerant materials for next-generation solar cells
Access to advanced characterization facilities
Integration in Berlin's research ecosystem
Direct contribution to renewable energy development

Career Growth

4-year PhD program with potential for postdoctoral extension or industry transition

Potential Next Roles

Postdoctoral Researcher Research Scientist in Industry Materials Development Engineer Academic Faculty Position

Company Overview

Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH

Leading German research institution focused on energy and materials science with significant international reputation

Top-tier research center within Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest scientific organization
Major player in Berlin-Brandenburg research landscape with strong international collaborations
International, collaborative environment with strong emphasis on scientific excellence and sustainability
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