The Faculty of Natural Sciences at Chemnitz University of Technology (TU Chemnitz) is inviting applications for a Research Associate / Postdoc position at the Chair of Inorganic Chemistry. This role is part of the European Research Council (ERC) funded project “Bis(carbene) Analogues of Aluminium and Gallium as Building Blocks for Highly Selective Reagents and Next Generation Catalysts – AGILE”.
Job Overview
| Designation | Research Associate / Postdoc (m/f/x) |
| Research Area | Inorganic Molecular Chemistry / Main-Group Chemistry |
| Location | Chemnitz, Germany |
| Salary Group | 13 TV-L (100%) |
| Duration | Fixed-term (30 months) |
| Application Deadline | October 26, 2026 |
Research Area and Project Description
The AGILE project focuses on the synthesis and characterization of bis(carbene) analogues of aluminium and gallium. These molecules are investigated for their potential as selective reagents, efficient catalysts, and ligands for transition metals. The successful candidate will join the research group of Prof. Dr. Robert Kretschmer, which specializes in synthetic molecular chemistry and the development of sustainable elements for bond activation and catalysis.
Responsibilities
- Synthesis of bis(carbene) analogues of aluminium and gallium using Schlenk and glovebox techniques.
- Utilization of synthetic electrochemistry and flow chemistry.
- Structural characterization using 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy, single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD), IR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry.
- Conducting reactivity and catalysis studies.
- Collaboration with team members and active participation in outreach projects.
- Publication of research results in scientific journals.
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Education: A PhD in molecular inorganic chemistry, preferably with a focus on main-group chemistry.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in molecular synthesis (Schlenk/glovebox) and advanced characterization methods (NMR, XRD, MS).
- Language: Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Preferred Skills: Experience with programming or data visualization using Python is highly welcome.
- Soft Skills: Openness to working in a diverse, international environment and a high level of motivation.
What We Offer
- Attractive, family-friendly working conditions and health promotion offers.
- 30 days of annual leave (based on a 5-day week).
- Company pension scheme (VBL) and annual special payments.
- Access to state-of-the-art experimental facilities at the Institute of Chemistry.
- Opportunities for further academic qualification and professional development.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted electronically (preferred) as a single PDF document or by post. Please include a cover letter, CV, academic certificates, and contact details for references. If available, please include your PhD thesis.
Use the keyword “ERC_Postdoc-2” in your application.
Email for Applications: sekretariat.ac@chemie.tu-chemnitz.de
Postal Address:
Technische Universität Chemnitz
Fakultät für Naturwissenschaften
Professur Anorganische Chemie
Prof. Dr. Robert Kretschmer
09107 Chemnitz, Germany
Last Date for Application
The deadline for submission is October 26, 2026. Online interviews will be conducted shortly after the review process.
