Scientist Biochemistry and Surface Functionalization

Future. Discover. Together.
Excellent research and innovation are at the heart of the research work of the Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications - HHI. Photonics is a dynamic and exciting field of research in which Fraunhofer HHI is a world leader in the development of integrated optoelectronic components. These are used in areas such as optical data transmission, sensor technology, quantum communication, and quantum information processing. We focus on the hybrid integration of photonic functionalities using innovative materials such as polymers, silicon nitride, and lithium niobate. The chips we develop cover a broad spectrum from classic optical data transmission to quantum applications. We accompany the entire development process - from simulation and design to production and characterization. In our well-equipped laboratories, we offer exciting and practice-oriented topics that you can develop further in national and international research projects. Excellent contacts in industry and science are guaranteed. Become part of our team and join us on our research and innovation journey!

 

For our dynamically growing activities in photonic biosensing, we are looking for a Research Associate with a focus on surface functionalization, biofunctionalization and assay development. The work will focus on sensor chips, in particular integrated biosensor platforms based on PICs. The objective is to develop robust, reproducible and application-oriented detection methods for future point-of-care or field applications.

 

Be part of change

• Develop and optimize surface functionalization strategies for photonic sensor chips
• Develop, perform and optimize bioanalytical assays on integrated sensor platforms
• Immobilize bioreceptive components such as antibodies, aptamers, proteins or other specific binders
• Select, evaluate and optimize suitable linker chemistries, activation steps, blocking strategies and washing protocols
• Investigate and reduce nonspecific binding and optimize selectivity, signal quality, stability and reproducibility
• Experimentally validate functionalization and assay protocols at chip level
• Perform measurement series in model media and, prospectively, in more complex biological matrices
• Contribute to the integration of biofunctionalized sensor chips into microfluidic, packaging and measurement-system environments
• Analyze, document and evaluate experimental data in a structured manner
• Contribute to national and international research projects
• Carry out development projects together with industrial and research partners

 

The scientific work offers the possibility of a doctorate.

 

What you contribute

• An excellent university degree (Master’s) in biotechnology, biochemistry, bioanalytics, chemistry, biomedical engineering, biosensorics, applied life sciences or a comparable field
• Practical experience in surface functionalization, biofunctionalization or the development of functional interfaces
• Sound knowledge of bioconjugation, linker chemistries and immobilization strategies for biomolecules
• Experience with antibody-, aptamer-, protein- or receptor-based assays
• Knowledge of passivation, blocking and reduction of nonspecific binding on functional surfaces
• Experience in the development, optimization and experimental validation of assay protocols
• Understanding of reproducibility, stability, robustness and quality-control processes for biofunctional surfaces
• Practical experience in the structured planning, execution, analysis and documentation of laboratory experiments
• Ideally, experience with label-free biosensing, photonic biosensors, microfluidics or point-of-care-oriented development
• Ideally, first experience in working with customers, project partners or interdisciplinary development teams

 

What we offer

• A first-class, newly furnished working environment in a leading research institute with an open, appreciative, results-oriented, and cooperative working atmosphere in a dynamically growing team
• Personal development opportunities through a wide range of further training measures, as well as health and sports facilities 
• Flexible working hours
• Attractive salary package according to TVöD with 30 days' vacation, pension scheme (VBL), capital-forming benefits (VWL) 
• Modern, excellently equipped workplace in the heart of Berlin
• Opportunities to work from home
• Various employee discounts and discounted BVG ticket
• Offers for families (parent-child office, emergency care, leisure activities)

 

The position is initially limited to 2 years. An extension is explicitly desired.

 

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future. 

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.
 

 

 

Dr. Moritz Kleinert

Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI 

www.hhi.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 84447                Application Deadline: 06/12/2026