Research assistant; f​/m​/d

Research assistant (f/m/d)

to promote their own academic qualifications within the meaning of § 2 (1) of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz) as soon as possible/ from 01.05.2026.

In our group, we are preparing and analysing nanowires (NWs) from III-V semiconductors in various device structures for energy conversion and other high-performance applications. For the NW analysis, we are using various materials science characterization methods including a dedicated 4-tip scanning tunnelling microscope. In this project funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), we are addressing III‑nitride resonant tunnel diodes in NW core-shell structures for improved performance in the THz range together with our project partners at the University Duisburg‑Essen.

Key challenges are the crystal quality of the heterostructures and internal polarization fields.

Your job tasks includes the following responsibilities:

• Analysis and evaluation of III‑V semiconductor structures grown by metal organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD), in particular, resonant tunnelling diodes.
• Electrical characterization of the structures using a 4‑tip scanning tunnelling microscope and electron beam‑induced current measurements with regard to charge carrier transport paths.
• Materials science analysis of nanowire morphology, investigation of the various structural areas, in particular local composition differences, using scanning electron microscopy and energy‑dispersive X‑ray spectroscopy.
• Technical support for the department in teaching, e.g. topic‑relevant theses.
• Publication and presentation of results at national and international conferences and in journals.

For being part of the selection process is needed:

• A completed university degree (Master’s or Diploma) with above‑average grades in a natural science, materials science, or engineering subject (e.g. physics, chemistry, renewable energy technology, materials science, or electrical engineering).

Following competences are desirable:

In‑depth knowledge of semiconductor physics mandatory. Knowledge of natural sciences (physics, chemistry), materials science, and/or engineering in semiconductor preparation. Ability to work independently and responsibly in an innovative, interdisciplinary team and research environment. Language (English B2 level, German B2 level) skills.

Please provide evidence of the qualifications required for the job by certificates and references.

The job is not suitable for part-time employment.

The interviews will be placed in calendar week 14/2026 and 15/2026.

• attractive remuneration according to collective agreement (as per TV‑L) incl. granting of a special annual payment
• vacation entitlement of 30 days in the calendar year and additional days off on 24/31 December
• family‑friendly, flexible working time model
• VBL - pension scheme in the public sector
• wide range of individual training opportunities
• extensive health and sports programs
• respectful working environment at a renowned university

Severely disabled applicants with essentially identical professional suitability will be preferentially selected.

For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Thomas Hannappel, Phone

:59 (Europe/Berlin)
:59 (CET)

Technische Universität Ilmenau stands for teaching and research at the highest level in the fields of technology, mathematics and natural sciences, business and media.