Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon is inviting applications for a 3-year position as a Postdoctoral Researcher in Localized Electrochemistry (SECM) within the Department of Electrochemistry and Big Data at the Institute of Surface Science. The researcher will focus on unraveling degradation pathways of light metals used in structural applications, medical devices, and aqueous batteries.
Overview
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Localized Electrochemistry, SECM/SECCM, Light Metals Degradation, Surface Science |
| Location | Geesthacht (near Hamburg), Germany |
| Employment Type | Full-time (39 hours/week), 3-year contract |
| Remuneration | Up to EG 13 (according to EntgO Bund) |
| Application Deadline | November 25, 2026 |
Job Description
The successful candidate will run local electrochemical measurements using scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM) to investigate metal degradation across electrolytes ranging from model solutions to complex physiological media.
Key responsibilities include:
- Setting up and commissioning a new customized SECM/SECCM system and managing the established SVET/SIET localized electrochemistry facility.
- Designing, fabricating, and characterizing micro- and nano-electrodes tailored to experimental requirements.
- Combining commercial and custom-built amperometric and potentiometric micro-probes and micro-optodes to separate anodic and cathodic degradation pathways.
- Correlating local electrochemical data with surface chemistry and morphology.
- Contributing to ongoing research projects while developing and pursuing independent research ideas.
- Publishing research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals, presenting at international conferences, and preparing project reports.
- Connecting localized electrochemistry instruments to an electronic lab notebook and establishing FAIR data management principles.
- Co-supervising PhD students and assisting in the preparation of external funding and grant proposals.
Eligibility & Qualification
- A PhD in electrochemistry, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related discipline.
- Hands-on experience with SECM (experience with SECCM is a strong advantage), supported by a track record of first-author publications.
- Proven experience in fabricating micro- or nano-electrodes for SECM/SECCM.
- Strong laboratory skills with solid capabilities in quantitative data analysis using relevant software.
- Familiarity with the degradation or corrosion of metallic materials, particularly light metals (prior work with biodegradable metals or medical devices is highly advantageous).
- Fluency in spoken and written English (knowledge of German is welcomed but not mandatory).
Benefits & Working Environment
- Access to modern robotic laboratories and unique scientific infrastructure.
- Support and funding for conferences, specialized training, and research visits.
- Public service benefits with up to EntgO Bund EG 13 remuneration and 6 weeks of annual leave.
- Flexible working hours, mobile working options, and family-friendly support services (including local childcare facilities).
- Subsidized public transport (Deutschlandticket) and electric vehicle charging points on a green campus situated on the Elbe River.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application online through the official Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon recruitment portal using Job ID 1082.
For content-related inquiries regarding the position, please contact: Sviatlana.Lamaka@hereon.de.
Last Date for Apply: November 25, 2026
