"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 , no earlier than November 1, 2026, as a
Doctoral Researcher (f/m/d)
salary scale (German) 13 TV-L, 75 % (29.4 h per week)
limited until 30.6.2029 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. Katharina Brinkert.
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 2, Processing :
In this research area, we investigate how to establish new key processes to make the most of the impure raw materials sourced from the Martian atmosphere and regolith to flexibly and efficiently produce parts on demand: we develop new production methods to meet pre-defined requirements for materials, not exceeding a strictly necessary level of quality for the intended application. Concretely, in this project, we modify materials’ surfaces e.g., with respect to their morphology and magnetic properties using electrochemistry, more precisely, electrodeposition. By using abundantly available Fe, Co and Ni elements from the Martian regolith (soil), we are creating highly functionalized surfaces on various materials by electrodeposition - terrestrially, and in reduced gravitation that is simulated for up to 9.2 s in the Bremen Drop Tower.
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:
- Developing protocols for the electrochemical deposition of Fe, Co und Ni in an inert atmosphere on various substrates to create different surface morphologies and properties (e.g., magnetize the surface).
- Use optical and spectroscopic characterization techniques such as AFM, SEM and TEM as well as XPS to characterize the deposited metallic thin film in depth.
- Investigating the developed electrodeposition protocols in reduced gravitational environments, realised at the Bremen Drop Tower at ZARM, and study the effect of a reduced gravitational environment on the electrodeposition process.
- Documenting, publishing, and presenting research findings through various channels, including academic journals and international conferences, usually in English
- Collaborating with other PhD students, (postdoctoral) researchers, and industry partners 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
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 in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Sciences or Physics.
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.
We offer:
- 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 under the TV-L ranging from €57,112.44 (Level 1) to €81,176.28 (Level 6) for a full-time position.
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 (VBL) for public-sector employees
- 30 days of vacation per calendar year (based on a 5-day workweek)
- A diverse, future-oriented, an open corporate culture
- Support from a collaborative, motivated team with a positive work environment
- Personalized onboarding
- Offers for your professional development
- A flexible and family-friendly work environment, with flexible working hours and mobile office options (taking into account the general conditions)
- Free social and family counseling services
- Active company health management including the option of discounts at local sports clubs or for gyms and swimming pools (EGYM Wellpass)
- The option of using a job ticket
- Numerous sports and cultural activities
- Varied catering options in the student union canteens
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 .
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:
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 A127-26 until 12.08.2026 as a single PDF file by unencrypted electronic mail to:
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 Processing
- 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.
Please submit only copies (no original documents), as we are unable to return them.
Notice pursuant to Sections 12, 13 of the GDPR: Your application materials will be retained in accordance with the provisions of Article 6 of the GDPR in conjunction with § 12 of the Bremen Data Protection Act (BremDSGVOAG), §§ 85 et seq. of the Bremen Civil Code (BremBG), and § 15 of the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) until the statutory retention period expires, after which they will be destroyed.
Any costs incurred in connection with the application process 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!
General Information
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 of Bremen is family-friendly, diverse and sees itself as an international university. We are committed to implement our diversity strategy at all levels and aim to increase the diversity and variety of perspectives of our employees. 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.
