The Institute for Solar Energy Research Hamelin (ISFH) is one of Europe's leading research institutions in the field of solar energy research. With a current staff of approximately 160, it conducts application-oriented research and development in the fields of photovoltaics and solar system technology. The ISFH also supports the solar industry with technological developments and cutting-edge research services. ISFH is organized as a non-university research institute of the state of Lower Saxony in the legal form of a non-profit limited liability company.
The Position
The position holder will be responsible for the management and administration of the ISFH and will shape the scientific and economic success and future viability of the institute. In addition to the topical research focus, this includes responsibility for project acquisition, the transfer of research results to industry, and the personnel and organizational development of the institute. This is an early replacement of the current holder of the position, Prof. Dr. Rolf Brendel. Joint management is planned for the transition phase until Prof. Brendel’s retirement. The appointment to the management position will be made by the State of Lower Saxony in accordance with a fixed-term management position for five years, with further extensions anticipated.
The successful candidate will be appointed to a permanent professorship at the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics at Leibniz University Hannover, in accordance with a joint appointment with ISFH based on the Jülich model. Simultaneously, the incumbent will be granted leave of absence from LUH to perform the duties at the ISFH. The cooperation between the ISFH and Leibniz University Hannover will be strengthened through personal membership in the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, and possible additional memberships in other faculties, as well as through participation in teaching (in the amount of 2 LVS) and in joint research projects.
Your Profile
We are looking for a scientifically excellent, team-oriented, and committed leader who can represent modern solar energy research with high international visibility. Specialization in a current field of research is desirable - for example, solar cell development based on metal halide perovskites, photovoltaic production technology, or solar system technology.
The ideal candidate should possess the following qualifications in particular:
- Several years of comprehensive leadership experience in the context of research and development
- Proven scientific record in a current field of solar energy research
- Experience in the successful acquisition of competitive third-party funding and in the implementation of third-party funded projects
- High degree of international visibility
- Demonstrated experience in networks/alliances, including networks with industry
- Experience in promoting excellent junior scientists
What we can offer you
ISFH and LUH offer excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific environment. This includes, in particular:
Leading an internationally visible solar research institute with highly motivated staff and excellent technical equipment, as well as potential for further development. There are excellent networking opportunities with experts in energy research from various disciplines at Leibniz University Hannover (www.energie.uni-hannover.de/de/) and in Lower Saxony (www.efzn.de).
In addition, you benefit from the support services offered by LUH, which assists its employees with a variety of opportunities for further education and training as well as many services to support families. The Dual Career Service at LUH is aimed at the partners of newly-appointed professors and provides support with career perspectives in Hannover and the surrounding region. As a central point of contact for international researchers, the Welcome Centre provides information, service and help on non-academic queries for you and your family concerning your stay in Hannover (e.g. official administrative procedures).
ISFH and LUH promote equal opportunities, diversity and a balance between work and family life (Equal Opportunities Office). For this reason, female researchers are particularly encouraged to apply. Furthermore, we welcome applications from international researchers. Preference will be given to equally-qualified applicants with disabilities (Representative for employees with disabilities).
Further information
