To strengthen our team in the division “Analysis of Artefacts and Cultural Assets” in Berlin-Steglitz, starting 01.04.2026, we are looking for a

Research assistant (m/f/d) in the field of materials science, chemistry, or comparable

Salary group 13 TVöD
Temporary contract until 31.12.2027
Part-time employment (85%)

The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is a materials research organization in Germany. Our mission is to ensure safety in technology and chemistry. We perform research and testing in materials science, materials engineering and chemistry to improve the safety of products and processes. At BAM we do research that matters. Our work covers a broad array of topics in the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials, and chemistry and process engineering.

We are looking for talented people to join us.

Your responsibilities include:

Scientific collaboration in the ReFoPlan project “Low-odor and low-emission indoor products – investigations and derivation of evaluation criteria for the intensity, hedonic value, and acceptability of odors for the further development of the Blue Angel.” The project primarily examines building products based on natural raw materials for odor and VOC emissions. Further supplementary investigations of floor coverings based on linoleum and rubber are to be carried out. In addition to odor, VOC measurements are also being carried out. These results will be used to apply the concept of odor guidelines in order to potentially develop information for the further development of the odor guideline concept.

The tasks include in detail:

• Design and implementation of the necessary measurements
• Cooperation with HTW Berlin and sampling there on site in parallel with the practical odor tests
• Conducting emission measurements in emission test chambers, HTW Berlin and indoor air, as well as analysis of the
• Collected samples using thermal desorption gas chromatography (TD-GC) and HPLC
• Preparation of test specimens for the investigations
• Support with scientific and administrative activities (organization of project meetings, writing
• Publications and reports, knowledge transfer, activities within the scope of the project objectives)

Your qualifications:

• Completed university degree (diploma, master's or equivalent) in materials science, chemistry or a comparable field
• Doctorate an advantage
• Good technical knowledge in the field of active sampling and analysis of airborne volatile organic compounds (VVOC, VOC, SVOC) using GC/MS, GC/FID with thermal desorption, and HPLC
• High level of analytical chemistry background knowledge
• Instrumental analytical and manual skills
• Basic knowledge of odor thresholds
• Very good knowledge in the field of validation of measurement methods
• Experience with the publication and presentation of scientific results
• Very good command of written and spoken German and English
• Good communication and information skills, initiative / commitment and ability to take action, decision-making skills and ability, ability to work in a team and willingness to cooperate, as well as conceptual, strategic, and innovative thinking skills

We offer:

• A varied and challenging role within a high-profile network of politics, science, business, and society
• Attractive and modern working environment with excellent infrastructure and state-of-the-art scientific equipment (laboratories, etc.)
• Research and development scope for your own innovative ideas
• Good work-life balance (option of mobile working [up to 60%], flexible working hours, 30 days of vacation, up to 12 days of compensatory time off per year, and part-time options)

Your application:

We welcome applications via the online application form by 04.03.2026. Alternatively, you can also send your application by post, quoting the reference number 14/26-4.5 to:

Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung
Referat Z.3 - Personal
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
GERMANY
www.bam.de

Dr. Horn will be glad to answer any specific questions you may have. Please get in touch via the telephone number +49 30 8104-1426 and/or by email to wolfgang.horn@bam.de.

BAM promotes professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women. At the same time, we strive to reflect social diversity. Every application is therefore welcome, regardless of gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity.

In addition, BAM has set itself the goal of promoting the professional participation of people with severe disabilities. The fulfillment of the job requirements is considered on an individual basis. Severely disabled persons or persons of equal status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

The advertised position requires a high level of physical aptitude.