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Research and Development Scientist (f/m/x) - Job Opportunity at Universität zu Köln

Köln, Germany
Full-time
Senior
Posted: June 7, 2025
On-site
EUR 55,000-70,000 annually based on TV-L remuneration group 13 for German public sector positions, which is competitive for senior research positions in Germany's academic sector with potential for equity participation in the planned spin-off company

Benefits

Access to fully equipped working space and comprehensive HCNB infrastructure providing cutting-edge research capabilities
Diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities promoting innovation through varied perspectives
Comprehensive work-life balance support programs enabling sustained high performance
Flexible working time models allowing optimization of research productivity cycles
Extensive advanced training opportunities for continuous professional development in emerging technologies
Occupational health management offers ensuring long-term career sustainability

Key Responsibilities

Lead identification and characterization of novel organic materials with tailored absorption properties, directly impacting the development of next-generation optical filter technology
Design sophisticated multi-layer filter stacks using proprietary in-house software, creating intellectual property and competitive advantages for the emerging spin-off company
Optimize advanced thin film deposition techniques to achieve precise controlled film thickness and spectral selectivity, establishing manufacturing processes critical for commercial viability
Integrate innovative materials into prototype spectral filters for high-performance applications across LiDAR, microscopy, healthcare diagnostics and emerging optical systems, bridging fundamental research with market applications

Requirements

Education

Advanced degree (at least MSc., preferably PhD or equivalent) in chemistry, materials science, or physics

Experience

Demonstrable expertise in material development, characterization, processing, and/or device integration

Required Skills

Strong technical background in organic semiconductors Material development expertise Characterization techniques Processing methodologies Device integration of light-absorbing organic semiconductors Knowledge of thin film optical coatings and their fabrication (advantageous but not crucial)
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The optical filter market is experiencing rapid growth driven by expanding applications in autonomous vehicles, particularly LiDAR systems, which require advanced noise reduction capabilities that traditional angle-dependent filters cannot provide effectively. Quantum mechanical approaches to optical filtering represent a paradigm shift in the industry, moving away from conventional thin-film coatings toward exploiting fundamental light-matter interactions, positioning this technology at the forefront of next-generation photonics. The integration of organic semiconductors in optical systems is gaining momentum due to their tunability, cost-effectiveness, and potential for large-area manufacturing, aligning with industry demands for customizable and scalable solutions. Healthcare diagnostics and computer vision applications are driving demand for wide field-of-view optical systems with superior angular stability, creating significant market opportunities for breakthrough filter technologies. The transition from university research to commercial spin-offs in photonics is increasingly supported by government funding schemes like BMWK EXIST, indicating strong policy support for technology transfer in this sector.

Role Significance

Small specialized research team of 3-5 scientists working closely with university faculty and industry partners, typical of university-based technology development programs preparing for commercialization
Senior-level position requiring advanced technical expertise and the ability to work independently on cutting-edge research with direct commercial implications, involving both fundamental research and practical application development

Key Projects

Development of proprietary polariton filter technology for commercial applications Establishment of manufacturing processes for organic semiconductor-based optical filters Collaboration with industry partners in automotive, healthcare, and imaging sectors Preparation of intellectual property portfolio for spin-off company formation

Success Factors

Deep understanding of organic semiconductor physics and quantum mechanical principles underlying polariton interactions, as this knowledge forms the foundation of the revolutionary filter technology being developed. Strong materials science background with hands-on experience in thin film processing and characterization, essential for translating theoretical concepts into practical manufacturing processes. Entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability to work in a dynamic environment transitioning from academic research to commercial application, requiring both scientific rigor and business awareness. Excellent problem-solving abilities and innovative thinking to overcome technical challenges in developing a fundamentally new optical technology that differs significantly from conventional approaches. Collaborative skills to work effectively with interdisciplinary teams including physicists, chemists, engineers, and business development professionals in the technology transfer process.

Market Demand

High demand driven by the convergence of autonomous vehicle technology, advanced microscopy applications, and the growing need for specialized optical components in emerging photonic systems

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Expertise in organic semiconductors is fundamental as the entire technology platform is based on exploiting quantum mechanical interactions in organic materials, making this knowledge essential for advancing the core technology and solving complex materials challenges. Materials characterization and processing skills are critical for translating theoretical concepts into practical filter designs, requiring the ability to control material properties at the nanoscale and optimize manufacturing processes for commercial viability. Understanding of optical systems and light-matter interactions is essential for designing effective filter stacks and integrating materials into functional prototypes that meet performance requirements across diverse applications. Research methodology and experimental design capabilities are crucial for systematic investigation of new materials and optimization of filter performance, requiring strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Beneficial Skills

Business development and entrepreneurship skills would be valuable for participating in the spin-off company formation and understanding market requirements, helping bridge the gap between technical development and commercial success. Project management and leadership abilities would enhance career progression opportunities within the growing organization and facilitate coordination of complex research projects with multiple stakeholders. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and industry standards in automotive, healthcare, and optical industries would accelerate product development and market entry strategies. Intellectual property awareness and patent development experience would contribute to building the company's competitive position and protecting innovative technologies.

Unique Aspects

Opportunity to be foundational member of a breakthrough technology spin-off company, offering potential equity participation and leadership roles in a revolutionary optical filter technology
Direct involvement in developing quantum mechanical approaches to optical filtering, representing a paradigm shift from conventional thin-film technologies
Access to cutting-edge research infrastructure at HCNB combined with the intellectual resources of one of Europe's premier universities
Participation in the complete technology transfer journey from fundamental research through commercialization, providing comprehensive experience in both academic and entrepreneurial environments
Work on technology with immediate applications in high-growth markets including autonomous vehicles, advanced microscopy, and healthcare diagnostics

Career Growth

2-4 years to transition into leadership roles within the spin-off company or similar positions in industry, with the unique experience of commercializing breakthrough technology providing accelerated career advancement opportunities

Potential Next Roles

Chief Technology Officer or Head of R&D in the planned spin-off company Senior Materials Scientist in advanced photonics or semiconductor companies Principal Researcher leading optical filter development programs in industrial settings Technology Transfer Manager specializing in photonics and optical systems

Company Overview

Universität zu Köln

Universität zu Köln is one of Europe's largest and oldest universities with significant research capabilities and strong industry connections, particularly through specialized centers like the Humboldt-Centre for Nano- and Biophotonics (HCNB) which focuses on cutting-edge photonics research.

Leading academic institution in Germany with substantial research funding and established track record in technology transfer, providing credible foundation for spin-off company development and industry partnerships.
Located in Cologne, a major economic center in North Rhine-Westphalia with strong industrial base and proximity to major automotive and technology companies, offering excellent networking and collaboration opportunities.
Academic research environment emphasizing innovation, intellectual freedom, and collaborative research while maintaining focus on practical applications and technology commercialization through structured programs like EXIST funding.
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