The Research Training Group CorMic invites applications for doctoral positions in an interdisciplinary program uniting advanced microscopy, materials development, and data-driven science for the next generation of sustainable functional materials and devices. Addressing global challenges in climate, energy, and sustainability, CorMic pioneers new strategies that combine cutting-edge microscopy, advanced materials design, and data-driven (AI/ML) approaches to accelerate discovery and optimization across scales.

Doctoral researchers will work at the interface of physics, chemistry, materials science, and data science, developing innovative multimodal and scale-bridging microscopy methods and applying them to model systems such as nanostructured films and hierarchical materials. By linking experimental and digital workflows, CorMic aims to establish new paradigms for integrating microscopic insights into materials design and device optimization.

The program offers a comprehensive qualification framework covering scientific, technical, and transferable skills, and fosters international collaboration and personal development through mentoring, research exchanges, and networking with leading partners.

CorMic provides a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment at the Center for Nanoanalysis and Electron Microscopy (CENEM), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU). Graduates will be equipped to take on leadership roles in academia or industry, driving innovation in sustainable materials technologies.

More information about CorMic’s research and qualification program can be found on the webpage: https://www.grk3103.forschung.fau.de/

• Regular promotion to the next level and increase in salary pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement for the public service of the German Länder (TV-L) or remuneration pursuant to the Bavarian Public Servants Remuneration Act (BayBesG) plus an additional annual bonus
• 30 days annual leave at five working days per week with additional free days on December 24 and 31
• Occupational pension scheme and asset accumulation savings scheme

• Excellent support during the academic qualification phase
• Structured doctoral degree programs
• Systematic career development in collaboration with the Graduate Center
• Thorough onboarding process with a dedicated team
• Joint team activities
• Subsidized food and drinks in our student restaurants
• Place of work within comfortable walking distance of public transport
• Family-friendly environment with childcare options, also during school holidays
• Flexible working hours
• A wide range of training courses and opportunities for professional development
• Active health management

The PhD candidates will be well-positioned in a network of international collaborations and trained in multiple, complementary techniques, which provide them with an essential foundation for a successful career in the field of advanced materials and device development.

More information about CorMic’s research and qualification program can be found on the webpage: https://www.grk3103.forschung.fau.de/

Highly qualified candidates with academic education in physics, chemistry, materials science, computational engineering or related disciplines are invited to apply. Proficient oral and written communication skills in English are required, knowledge of the German language is welcome.

The PhD positions are provided for up to four years and will be paid according to the regulations of the collective wage agreement of the civil service.

Applications should include:

• a letter of motivation
• your CV including educational and vocational history, key skills and academic achievements, publications and oral presentations (max. 2 page)
• academic transcripts and certificates, and, if necessary, a letter detailing any other pertinent information, such as prolonged delays in study or significant extracurricular activities
• if applicable academic letter(s) of recommendation
• please mention up to 3 projects you are interested in applying for (short project descriptions can be found on the webpage) https://www.grk3103.forschung.fau.de/

The Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg is a member of “The Family in Higher Education Institutions” best practice club and aims to increase the number of women in scientific positions. Female candidates are therefore particularly encouraged to apply.