Research Associate (m/f/d) - Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in for the Professorship of Journalism and Communication

Join the Cluster of Excellence “ BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials ” and contribute to one of Europe’s most exciting research initiatives. Collaborate with a dynamic, interdisciplinary team that combines science, sustainability, and technology to create a better future. Help shape the next generation of sustainable materials inspired by nature’s most powerful resource: water .

For the Professorship of Journalism and Communication Research for the earliest possible start date we are looking for a

Research Associate (m/f/d) -
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in

to conduct accompanying communication research on BlueMat as part of the BlueMat Cluster of Excellence. The position is part-time (75%) and fixed-term until 31 December 2029. The remuneration is in accordance with salary group 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public service of the federal states).

In this role, you will investigate how a large, interdisciplinary research consortium works together on the inside, treating the Cluster of Excellence itself as a real-world case study for communication research. You will study how its teams collaborate, coordinate their work and transfer knowledge across disciplines. You will turn empirical findings into evidence-based strategies that can improve information flow within and between BlueMat teams. This position offers an ideal environment to pursue a PhD while contributing directly to the Cluster’s success as an interdisciplinary collaboration.

YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS

• Investigate communicative practices within selected BlueMat research units, focusing on internal exchange, coordination routines and decision-making processes
• Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative empirical studies (e.g. interviews, observation, document analysis) on internal exchange within and between BlueMat teams
• Collaborate closely with BlueMat partners across research areas to translate findings into evidence-based recommendations for the broader cluster program
• Share your findings through publications and engage with the research community and public (e.g. through presentations at conferences and workshops and participation in meetings)

YOUR PROFILE

Essential qualification

• Completed university studies (master’s degree or equivalent), in particular in the subject of Communication Studies, Organisational Communication, Organisation Studies, Media Studies or a related discipline in the social sciences with a strong empirical background

Required knowledge and personal skills

• Strong expertise in qualitative social science methods
• Strong interest in communication science, organisational communication and/or science communication and in pursuing a PhD in this field
• Excellent command of German and English, both written and spoken
• Curiosity and strong teamwork as well as communication skills for working in interdisciplinary teams

Desired knowledge and personal skills

• In-depth knowledge of science communication and the organisation of large research consortia
• Experience working in or with research institutes, universities or comparable organisations
• Interest in, or basic familiarity with, the natural sciences and engineering
• Knowledge of quantitative methods is an advantage

OUR OFFER

• Scientific qualification with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a leading research cluster
• Access to BlueMat Academy: training workshops, mentoring, and career development
• Participation in international conferences, research stays, and collaborative networks
• Flexible working conditions, 30 vacation days, family-friendly policies
• Access to on-campus fitness facilities and health promotion programs

Got questions before applying? Contact Prof. Dr. Christopher Buschow at [email protected] – we’re happy to support you.

Inclusive excellence drives better science. We actively seek female & international researchers from all walks of life, valuing non-linear careers and diverse perspectives across cultures, disciplines, and identities. We explicitly welcome applications from persons with severe disabilities and those with equivalent status as defined in Section 2 of the German Social Code, Book IX (SGB IX).

The Hamburg University of Technology stands for equal opportunities as well as appreciative and respectful cooperation.

Please submit your complete application documents (cover letter, CV, degree certificates) via the online application system, quoting the vacancy ID 20226WBMT3, by September 15, 2026.