Research Scientist (m/f/d) in Leipzig - 13-2026-WMA-QA

The Leibniz Institute for Surface Engineering (IOM) in Leipzig is seeking to fill the following position with immediate effect for a limited duration of two years:

Research Scientist (m/f/d)

The Leibniz Institute for Surface Engineering (IOM) is researching new functional and precision surfaces for applications of high societal relevance and emerging technologies. One key focus of IOM is on fundamental physical and chemical processes using ions, electrons, plasmas and photons. We are part of the Leibniz Association, one of the four major non-university science organizations with 96 institutes in Germany.

We are looking for a competent, open-minded personality to strengthen our team as soon as possible. We offer you part-time (28 hours) employment with a limitation of two years.

We offer you:

• An exciting role with diverse activities in an interdisciplinary working environment
• Compensation in accordance with TV-L EG 13
• Participation in the company pension scheme (VBL)
• Flexible working hours (28 hours/week)
• A wide range of offerings to support work-life balance
• Assistance in securing a place at a kindergarten, free parking spaces, and capital-forming benefits

Your tasks:

• Extension of an existing global model to simulate the N₂/O₂ chemistry in plasma discharges
• Processing of spectroscopic and high-speed imaging data from plasma discharge experiments 
• Development of mechanistic understanding of plasma processes in close collaboration within the team
• Communicating results through internal presentations, to project partners, at international conferences and via peer-reviewed publications

Our requirements:

• Completed university degree in the field of physics, engineering, mathematics or computer science; a doctoral degree is preferred  
• Knowledge of plasma physics and chemistry at low and atmospheric pressure
• Goal-oriented way of working as well as high ability to work in a team
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration in an interdisciplinary team
• Experience in supporting projects, especially with industrial partners
• Proficiency in spoken and written English

Severely handicapped individuals and those of equivalent status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified. If you require special support or accommodation for barrier-free and inclusive work, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to assist you. The IOM attaches great importance to the professional equality of women and men and therefore strongly encourages qualified women to apply. The compatibility of career and family is specifically promoted.

Please send your application documents or questions by May 26, 2026 at bewerbung@iom-leipzig.de with the ID: 13-2026-WMA-QA in a single PDF file (max. 10 MB).                                                                                                                

The applicant agrees to the storage/processing of personal data (Art. 13 DSGVO) for the purpose of selecting applicants.                                                                                                                

 Leipzig, May 12, 2026