As an Integrative Research Center of the Technical University of Munich, the TUM Campus Straubing stands for interdisciplinary research for the realization of sustainable change of raw materials and energy supply in all areas of life. The overexploitation of fossil and natural resources, the associated release of climate-damaging gases with the consequence of global warming, the shortage of key raw materials as well as increasing amounts of waste are decisive arguments for a comprehensive change towards the sustainable use of biogenic raw materials. The use of renewable raw materials in chemical, material and energy value chains makes a comprehensive and diverse contribution to the sustainable supply of raw materials and energy.
The newly established research group in Particle and Fiber Technology for bio- based Materials, led by Prof. Dr. Wenwen Fang, is seeking a highly motivated PhD student in bio-based fibers and materials (f/m/d) The group 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.
Research & Lab Development: You will play a key role in setting up a fiber spinning laboratory from scratch, including coordinating with manufacturers and assembling equipment with technicians and researchers.
Teaching: 2-3 teaching hours per week, including course exercises, lab sessions.
Supervision: Guide and support students during their thesis work and project assignments.
Research: Conduct cutting-edge research on novel fiber technology and bio-based materials, with the flexibility to explore new research topics within this field.
Publications: Prepare and publish research findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
This position provides a unique opportunity to build a state-of-the-art spin lab and a balance in lab development, teaching and research. The research topic is flexible, allowing the successful candidate to contribute their own ideas and innovations within the scope of bio-based fiber materials.
Master in Polymer Chemistry, Polymer Physics, Material Science/Engineering
Experience with bio-based polymers and their processing technologies is an advantage
Proven ability or willingness to contribute to the setup and management of laboratory infrastructure
Experience in teaching (eg, delivering lectures, organizing laboratory sessions, supervising student projects)
Strong communication skills in both written and spoken English. Basic knowledge of German is preferred
Basic knowledge in mechanical engineering or experience with fiber spinning equipment is an advantage
Research Freedom: Flexibility to explore different research topics within fiber technology and bio-based materials
Career Development: Opportunity to contribute to the establishment of a new research laboratory and develop leadership skills
Teaching Experience: Gain valuable teaching experience at one of Germany's leading technical universities
Collaborative Environment: Work in a highly interdisciplinary and dynamic environment at the TUM Straubing Campus, focused on sustainability and renewable resources
As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, TUM explicitly encourages applications from women as well as from all others who would bring additional diversity dimensions to the university's research and teaching strategies. Preference will be given to disabled candidates with essentially the same qualifications