Position Summary
Position:
Department:
Particle and Fiber Technology
Institute:
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Country:
Germany
Research Field:
polymer science, chemistry, materials science, or materials engineering
Posted Date:
Feb 10, 2026
Deadline:
May 01, 2026
Offer Period:
3 Years
Offer Start Date:
NA
PhD in Polymer Science/Chemistry
Description:
- Our research focuses on extracting and isolating bio-based polymers such as cellulose and proteins from renewable feedstocks and waste streams. We aim to develop sustainable processes to convert these materials into high-performance fibers and functional materials. By manipulating molecular interactions through chemical and physical methods, we tailor the structural and mechanical properties of bio-based materials to advance the potential of biopolymers in various applications.
Project description
- Cellulose is the most abundant biopolymer on earth and offers significant potential for applications such as sustainable packaging materials and textiles. However, its use in mass production is limited by its inability to melt like conventional thermoplastics. This limitation arises from the strong intermolecular bonding within cellulose: upon heating between 240 °C and 350 °C, cellulose begins to decompose rather than transitioning into a meltable phase.
- LaserCell funded by ERC StG envisions an innovative approach to reshape and rearrange cellulose at the molecular level by disrupting cohesive interactions through resonant excitation of specific bonds. It will revolutionize the field of biopolymer processing beyond cellulose and yield fundamental insights into supramolecular structure and dynamics in biomaterials.
Required Qualification:
Essential Qualification:
- Master’s degree in polymer science, chemistry, materials science, or materials engineering, or a closely related field
- Strong willingness to contribute to the setup and management of laboratory infrastructure
- Fluency in English, particularly in scientific writing and communication, is required
- Practical, hands-on skills and technical competence are highly valued, especially given that the laboratory is in the expansion phase
Preferred Qualification:
- Experience with cellulose and its processing technologies e.g. fiber spinning, extrusion, as well as characterization methods, e.g. GPC, NMR is an advantage
Employment Conditions and Benefits:
Contract duration:
- This position offers a three-year contract (65% E13 TV-L) with the possibility of extension. You will benefit from international collaboration opportunities, especially in the Nordic countries, as well as conference participation and research in a modern, well-equipped laboratory environment.
Benefits:
- We offer excellent working conditions within a young and interdisciplinary team. In an open and collaborative environment, you will have the freedom to develop and pursue your own ideas. Located at the gateway to the Bavarian Forest, Straubing—a historic ducal town on the Danube—is a leading center for renewable materials and sustainability technologies in Germany.
- As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, TUM explicitly encourages applications from women and individuals who can contribute to the diversity of the university’s research and teaching. Preference will be given to candidates with disabilities who have equivalent qualifications.
Application Process:
Documents Required:
- CV including publications
- A max one page motivation letter
- Degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Contact details of two referees
How to apply:
- To apply this position, please submit your application including the attachments mentioned below as one single PDF document in English via email to applications.pft@cs.tum.de
About the Host Lab Group/Institution:
The Technical University of Munich (TUM) is one of Europe’s premier public research institutions, established in 1868 and recognized consistently as a top-ranked university in Germany and the world. Located in Munich, with additional campuses in Garching, Weihenstephan, Straubing, and Heilbronn, TUM serves over 50,000 students, of which nearly 45% are international. As a "University of Excellence" in the German Excellence Strategy, TUM is distinguished by its strong focus on engineering, natural sciences, technology, and medicine. The university calls itself "The Entrepreneurial University," fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem with strong industry partnerships, resulting in over 100 start-ups annually. TUM provides a diverse academic environment with around 200 degree programs, many of which are taught in English, particularly at the master’s level. It is known for its intense, research-driven curriculum, attracting elite talent globally. With 19 Nobel Prizes in its history, TUM is a central hub for scientific and societal innovation, addressing challenges like sustainable energy and digital transformation. The university is a proud member of the TU9, a network of the most prestigious technical universities in Germany.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can apply for a PhD position?
PhD positions are open to candidates who hold, or will soon complete, a relevant Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on the institution and research project.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Most PhD positions are open to international applicants. Universities usually provide support for visa applications and residence permits, subject to national regulations.
Is a Master’s degree mandatory for applying to a PhD?
In most cases, a completed Master’s degree is required. However, some institutions may consider exceptional candidates with strong academic backgrounds or integrated Master–PhD programs.
What is the typical duration of a PhD program?
A PhD program typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the country, funding scheme, and research field. Some programs may allow extensions under specific circumstances.
Is the PhD position fully funded?
Most advertised PhD positions are fully funded and include a monthly salary or stipend. Funding details, tuition coverage, and benefits are usually specified in the job description.
Are PhD candidates considered students or employees?
This depends on the country and institution. In many European countries, PhD candidates are employed as staff members, while in others they may be registered as students receiving a stipend.
Are teaching responsibilities included in PhD positions?
Teaching duties vary by institution. Some PhD positions include teaching or lab supervision, while others are research-only. The exact expectations are described in each job advertisement.
Disclaimer:
This position is published for informational purposes. Please refer to the official application link for the most accurate and up-to-date details.