Materials scientist - Lab Development (m/f/d)

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Engineer (f/m/d) Lab Development and Automation for Robotized Solar Cell Research

Kennziffer: SE 2025/18

Join the forefront of renewable energy innovation with the dynamic team at the Young Investigator Group: Robotized Optoelectronic Materials and Photovoltaic Engineering at HZB! Our group focuses on the robotized fabrication of solar cells through wet-chemical processes inside inert atmosphere gloveboxes. We aim to accelerate the discovery and optimization of high-performance photovoltaic materials by integrating automation, advanced characterization techniques, and data-driven strategies. Our group is supported by a prestigious €2 million BMFTR NanoMatFutur project, which enables us to build one of Germany’s most innovative platforms for robotized solar cell research and development. A central pillar of our research is the development of reliable, high-throughput software tools for standardized and reproducible solar cell performance measurements. As a key contributor to our cutting-edge research, you will help set up, maintain, and operate state-of-the-art laboratory systems designed to accelerate progress in perovskite solar cell technology. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers, gaining deep expertise in solar cell engineering while advancing innovations that improve the long-term stability and scalability of solar energy. Be part of the sustainable energy revolution-and make a real impact on the future of renewable power.

• Laboratory Development & Robotic Integration: Take a leading role in the development and setup of a next-generation photovoltaic laboratory. You will be responsible for integrating robotic systems into inert atmosphere gloveboxes, enabling automated wet-chemical processing for solar cell fabrication.
• Instrument Control & Software Collaboration: Operate and control robotic instruments while contributing to the development of custom software solutions. You will work closely with external technology partners and instrument manufacturers to design and refine automation protocols and ensure smooth system performance.
• Ensuring Operational Efficiency: Conduct regular test measurements to uphold the functionality and performance of instruments and software. Your proactive approach will guarantee uninterrupted research activities, keeping our lab at the forefront of technological advancement.
• Tender and Lab-Safety Documentation: Support tender processes and maintain meticulous lab-safety documentation. Your attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols will create a secure and productive working environment for all team members.
• Problem-Solving and Documentation: Harness your problem-solving skills to tackle challenges that arise in instrumentation and software. Your ability to troubleshoot effectively and document solutions will streamline processes and enhance productivity.

• Technical education or degree in engineering, physics, physical chemistry, materials science, or a related field-ideally with practical experience in laboratory instrumentation or process automation.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory equipment, gloveboxes, or vacuum systems.
• experience in setting up or maintaining controlled-atmosphere environments is a strong asset.
• Practical knowledge in automation or robotics for scientific or industrial applications; ability to configure, operate, and troubleshoot robotic systems used in material synthesis or device fabrication.
• Programming or software development skills (e. g. Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB) for instrument control, workflow automation, or data processing; experience collaborating with software developers or companies is highly desirable.
• Structured, independent working style and strong communication skills (minimum English B2) for coordinating with researchers, technical staff, and external partners during lab setup, equipment integration, and process optimization.

• Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers
• Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods
• Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office
• Attractive remuneration through payment according to Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund)
• 30 days holiday/year
• Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes
• Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working
• And a team that is looking forward to meeting you!

Fixed term contract for 24 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund).