Biologist - Scientific Research Associate (m/f/d)

About Hochschule Bochum

Hochschule Bochum is a forward-thinking university situated in the green heart of the Ruhr region. It is distinguished by strong practical orientation and close connections to both regional and wider economies. The university promotes interdisciplinary approaches and sustainability, offering excellent conditions for quality education, research, knowledge transfer, and professional development. We aim to enhance this quality by recruiting enthusiastic and innovative staff members.

Position Overview

Starting in the winter semester 2026/27, Hochschule Bochum is seeking a Scientific Research Associate (m/f/d) in the Department of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering. This position supports the organizational and technical aspects of the student projects "CarbonSequestration@NRW" and "BIOMEILER." The contract is fixed for two years, offering a 50% part-time role (19 hours and 55 minutes per week) with compensation according to pay group 11 of the collective agreement for public service in Germany (TV-L).

Project Details

The projects give students the opportunity to shape their future and develop career-relevant skills by engaging with current sustainability issues such as climate and nature protection, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The CarbonSequestration@NRW project focuses on producing and using biochar as a negative emission technology and soil improver. The BIOMEILER project investigates heat from compost as a renewable heat source without compromising compost quality.

Responsibilities

• Provide assistance with plant cultivation and soil science questions.
• Support students in planning and conducting hands-on activities like constructing and dismantling biomeilers, biomass pyrolysis, charging and applying biochar as soil amendment, and collecting and analyzing samples of biomass, soil, biochar, and compost.
• Assist students in interpreting results and preparing documentation including calculations, evaluations, and protocols.
• Support the project leadership in organizing meetings, events, and evaluating exam performances.
• Help with procuring biomass, materials, and equipment.

Candidate Profile

• A completed university degree in a relevant field such as agricultural sciences, biology, geoecology, or geography.
• Experience guiding problem-based projects is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Prior knowledge and practical experience across various project-related tasks are preferred.
• Capability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams and enthusiasm for engaging with people.
• Strong commitment to sustainability.
• Reliability and a demonstrated ability to act purposefully and in a structured manner.

Benefits

• Access to university didactics training and professional development programs.
• Engagement in a diverse and stimulating work environment.
• Collaboration within an interdisciplinary team.