14 Sep 2026
Job Information
- Organisation/Company: University of Bremen
- Department: The Martian Mindset
- Research Field: Engineering » Aerospace engineering; Engineering » Chemical engineering; Engineering » Mechanical engineering; Mathematics » Applied mathematics; Physics » Applied physics; Physics » Computational physics
Offer Description
“The Martian Mindset - A scarcity-driven engineering paradigm” is a newly funded Cluster of Excellence and was established at the University of Bremen in 2026. In this context, a position is available as soon as possible, as a
Research Assistant (f/m/d)
salary scale (German) 13 TV-L, 100 % (39.2 h per week)
limited until 30.06.2029 according to § 2 WissZeitVG.
Part-time work is generally possible and to be agreed with the respective project leaders.
The workplace and employment will be at the University of Bremen, Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM) in the research group of Prof. Dr. Marc Avila.
The University as an Employer:
With approximately 20,000 students and about 3,500 employees, the University of Bremen is a medium-sized university. It ranks among Germany’s leading universities in terms of external funding and research.
The Martian Mindset:
Our scientists are developing the “Martian Mindset” in order to rethink the production of materials and components from scratch. The scarcity of resources and extreme conditions on the red planet serve as a setting to develop a new paradigm of sustainability that will lay the foundations for a fossil-fuel-free production of materials and parts from scarce resources in a highly automated and resilient way. The Cluster of Excellence will thus contribute to the sustainable human exploration of space and power a green transition on Earth.
The challenging and interdisciplinary research in “The Martian Mindset” spans ten multifaceted foci across three areas, whereas this position is to be filled within the Research Area 1, Sourcing:
In this research area, we investigate how to produce high-added-value materials and chemicals from low-grade ores using atmospheric gases as the only source of carbon and nitrogen and without burning fossil fuels. The focus of this position falls under modelling and simulation of multiphase flows electrolysis systems.
This project aims at developing numerical models that faithfully describe the generation, detachment and interaction of bubbles in electrolytes. The initial focus is on the generation of oxygen in water electrolysis under terrestrial and Mars conditions, but the models developed will offer a robust framework extendable to molten salt electrolysis.
The gas dynamics in electrochemical cells spans multiple scales in space, from (sub)nanometer to cell size (mm), and similarly for time, which cannot be all resolved simultaneously. Accordingly, multiscale, multiphase models will be developed that parametrize the effect of the unresolved (small) scales. Results from other projects in the Cluster that focus on the nano and micro scales will be leveraged to inform parametrizations and/or train the models with machine-learning techniques. A central focus is the quantification of uncertainty in the multi-scale approach. The resulting model predictions will directly inform reactor design and optimization in collaboration with experimental groups in the Cluster.
This project enhances the “Martian Mindset” scarcity-driven engineering paradigm by paving the way for the accurate, robust design of electrochemical technologies on Earth and in space conditions.
More information on the other research foci, the project leaders and the Cluster of Excellence itself can be found on our website: www.mars.uni-bremen.de.
As a researcher in The Martian Mindset, working at one of the five participating institutions on the campus of the University of Bremen, you will join a vibrant and dynamic scientific community of internationally renowned researchers. You will be involved in innovative and challenging scientific projects and contribute to the advancement of the respective research field.
Your key tasks will include in particular:
- Develop mathematical multiscale, multiphase models of the gas dynamics in electrochemical cells
- Implement these models using python and CUDA based on our in-house codes
- Parametrize and train the models leveraging nano- and microscopic data from other numerical and in the Cluster
- Validate results with experiments performed in other projects in the Cluster
- Investigate the dependence of the gas dynamics on the parameters of the system (electrode material and surface roughness, potential, concentration of the electrolyte, etc.)
- Documenting, publishing, and presenting research findings through various channels, including academic journals and international conferences, usually in English
- Collaborating with PhD students, postdoctoral researchers to advance joint scientific projects and publications
- Actively participating in Martian Mindset events, such as retreats, seminars, summer schools, and workshops to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration, considering individual possibilities (e.g. compatibility with family responsibilities, impairments)
- Mandatory participation in our qualification program (see below)
- Developing and writing grant proposals to secure funding for research projects and initiatives
- After agreement, there is the possibility of performing teaching tasks independently
- Opportunity to pursue individual academic research (e.g., doctoral dissertation, habilitation, or work equivalent to a habilitation)
Where to apply
E-mail: MartianMindset.applications@uni-bremen.de
Requirements
- Research Field: Engineering — Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
- Research Field: Mathematics — Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
- Research Field: Physics — Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent
Skills/Qualifications
We are looking for dynamic and open-minded personalities who enjoy conducting cutting-edge research in an interdisciplinary, international and diverse team. To succeed in this role, you should:
- hold a master’s degree in a relevant field such as Applied Mathematics, Physics, Aerospace/Mechanical/Chemical/Process Engineering or a related discipline. We also consider applicants who are in the final phase of their master’s degree program. Please note that submission of your master’s degree certificate is mandatory for employment.
- be proficient in English (spoken and written), e.g. CEF-level B2
- demonstrate the ability to work independently and manage time effectively
- show team spirit
- possess a collaborative mindset and strong communication skills
- exhibit analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
A willing to engage in interdisciplinary work and collaborate with colleagues from different fields of expertise is expected.
Languages: ENGLISH — Level: Excellent
Additional Information
Benefits
- State-of-the-art, unique research infrastructure
- Opportunities for international collaborations and extended research stays in top laboratories around the world
- A comprehensive mentoring and qualification program (see below) tailored to your individual needs and goals to promote successful project completion and transition to leading positions in academia and industry
- Support from the Welcome Center of the U Bremen Research Alliance
- Depending on individual qualifications, a gross annual salary in accordance with the TV-L ranging from 57.112,44 € (Level 1) to 81.176,28 € (Level 6) for a full-time position (39.2 hours per week). The university will determine the individual pay grade assignment based on relevant prior professional experience upon an offer of employment. Additional benefits, such as the annual bonus (“Christmas bonus”) and any career advancement opportunities within the advertised pay grade, are also dependent on this assignment. This is based on the applicable legal provisions of the TV-L (specifically § 16 TV-L). For civil servants, remuneration is governed in particular by the provisions of the Bremen Civil Service Remuneration Act (further information can be found here).
- An additional pension plan for public sector employees (VBL)
- 30 days of vacation per calendar year (based on a 5-day workweek)
- A diverse, forward-looking, and open corporate culture
- Support from a collegial, motivated team with a positive work environment
- Individual onboarding
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development
- Work-life balance through flexible working hours (flex time) and the option to work remotely (subject to certain conditions)
- Free services as part of social and family counseling
- An active workplace health management program, including discounts at local sports clubs, gyms, and swimming pools (EGYM Wellpass)
- The option to use a Job-Ticket
- Numerous sports and cultural activities
- A variety of dining options in the Student Services cafeterias
Qualification concept:
Together we will create an exceptional environment for research, education and innovation, where the Martian Mindset can flourish. Our qualification concept is designed to empower early-career researchers to become creative, versatile and responsible risk-takers, who will continue to develop and implement our scarcity driven engineering paradigm in leadership roles within academia and industry. To achieve this, we offer individualized supervision and training, with a strong advisory network of supervisors, mentors, and peers. Further information on our comprehensive qualification program is available online.
Selection process
Do you have questions?
For general questions about the personnel selection procedure and for questions about the content of the advertised position, please do not hesitate to contact:
Prof. Dr. Marc Avila (mavila@uni-bremen.de)
or our recruiting team (MartianMindset.applications@uni-bremen.de)
For more information on the research foci and project leaders, the training program, the participating institutions, and the selection process, please visit our website: www.mars.uni-bremen.de
We invite you to apply if you would like to co-develop the Martian Mindset with us and unlock the creative potential for innovation that emerges from scarcity.
How to apply:
Please send your application to the following address, quoting the reference number A171-26 until 13.10.2026 as a single PDF file by unencrypted electronic mail to:
MartianMindset.applications@uni-bremen.de
To apply, please submit the following documents in English:
- A cover letter (max. 2 DIN A4-pages) that includes:
- A clear statement of motivation to join The Martian Mindset and research activities in the research area Sourcing
- A description of how your individual background and qualifications make you a good fit for the project
- Ideally, contact information for two potential referees
- A brief summary of your thesis and previous research projects (max. 2 pages)
- A detailed curriculum vitae (please without a picture)
- A copy of your degree certificate/transcript of records (German possible)
- Any other supporting documents, such as certificates, as relevant to your application (German possible)
If you would like to send your application by post, please contact our recruiting team in advance by email (see above).
International applications are expressly encouraged.
You are welcome to let us know which pronouns you use and how we may address you.
Please note that you should not include any photos with your application materials.
We kindly ask you to send us only copies (no portfolios) of your application documents, as we cannot return them. They will be destroyed after the selection process has been completed. Any application costs cannot be reimbursed.
Do you combine curiosity and interest in scientific problems and have a strong desire to contribute to sustainable human space exploration as well as the green transition on Earth?
Then we look forward to receiving your application!
Additional comments
Open to unconventional approaches in research and teaching, the University of Bremen has retained its character as a place of short distances for people and ideas since its founding in 1971. With a broad spectrum of subjects, we combine exceptional performance and innovative potential. As an ambitious research university, we stand for research-based learning approaches and a pronounced interdisciplinary orientation. We actively pursue scientific cooperation in a spirit of global partnership.
Today, around 23,000 people learn, teach, research, and work on our international campus. In research and teaching, administration and operations, we are strongly committed to the goals of sustainability, climate justice, and climate neutrality. Our Bremen spirit is expressed in the courage to try new things, in supportive cooperation, in respect and appreciation for each other. With our study and research profile and as part of the European YUFE network, we assume social responsibility in the region, in Europe, and in the world.
The university is family-friendly, diverse and sees itself as an international university. We therefore welcome all applicants regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion/belief, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.
The University of Bremen promotes the employment of women at all levels. Women are therefore expressly encouraged to apply.
Disabled applicants will be given priority if their professional and personal qualifications are essentially the same.
Website for additional job details: http://www.mars.uni-bremen.de/
Work Location(s)
- Number of offers available: 1
- Company/Institute: Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM)
- Country: Germany
- State/Province: Bremen
- City: Bremen
- Postal Code: 28359
- Street: Am Fallturm 2
Contact
- State/Province: Bremen
- City: Bremen
- Website: https://www.uni-bremen.de/en/the-martian-mindset
- Street: Postfach 330440
- Postal Code: 28334
- E-Mail: MartianMindset.applications@uni-bremen.de