Research assistant (WHB) (m/f/x) with a Bachelor's degree - Bochum

Ruhr-Universität Bochum

Raum Bochum

Dein Job

Faculty of Mechanical Engineering:
Carbon Sources and Conversion

In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (8.5 hours/week) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for one

Research assistant (WHB) (m/f/x) with a Bachelor's degree

Carbon Sources and Conversion at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, focuses on developing sustainable technologies for the utilization of carbon from renewable, industrial, and domestic sources. Our research aims to close anthropogenic carbon cycles by transforming underutilized carbon streams into valuable products. We combine fundamental investigations with process engineering to develop scalable, ecologically and economically viable solutions. Our work spans laboratory research to mini-plant scale and integrates interdisciplinary expertise in catalysis, biomass conversion, and CO₂ utilization.

We are looking for a committed research assistant (HiWi) to support our work in the experimental development and analytical validation of carbon-based feedstocks, particularly in connection with the activation of carbon and the synthesis of bio-based base chemicals.

Your tasks:

Assist in laboratory-scale conversion of carbonaceous starting materials.
Assist in the analysis of organic and inorganic product mixtures with complex composition.
Conduct and evaluate sample characterization (BET, CHNS, ICP, IC, FTIR, SEM-EDX, TGA, UV-VIS, XRD, XRF, particle size distribution, proximate analysis).
Support development of analytical methods, including chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
Operate pilot-scale setups and perform process-related testing (e.g., high-pressure reactors and pyrolysis reactors).
Prepare reports and document measured data.

Dein Profil

Your profile:

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering
Strong laboratory background, including sample preparation (e.g., leaching, digestion), safety training, laboratory instruments, and pilot plants.
Proven experience with advanced analytical methods (BET, CHNS, FTIR, ICP, IC, SEM-EDX, TGA, UV-VIS, XRD, XRF, proximate analysis, particle size distribution) and operation of pilot-scale setups (e.g., high-pressure reactors and pyrolysis reactors)
Knowledge of carbon materials (e.g., activation methods) and material characterization techniques
International academic and professional experience is desirable (e.g., Erasmus studies, internships).
Excellent communication skills in German and English (minimum C1 level)
Reliable, independent, and structured working style

We offer:

Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence
Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team
Extensive training and professional development opportunities

Further information:

The opening is for an undergraduate assistant and is governed by § 6 of the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (engl. Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act; WissZeitVG). The hourly wage is 16,30 €.The Place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.

The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.

The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.

Contact persons for further information:

Prof. Dr. Thomas Ernst Müller Thomas-Ernst.Mueller@ruhr-uni-bochum.de, Phone: +49 234 32 26390
Dr.-Ing. Giampiero Sorrentino sorrentino@ls-csc.rub.de, Phone: +49 234 32 26689

Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.

We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2025-10-15. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 4946.