University Professorship (W3) "Theoretical Chemistry"

Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) – The Research University in the Helmholtz Association creates and imparts knowledge for the society and the environment. It is our goal to make significant contributions to mastering the global challenges of mankind in the fields of energy, mobility, and information. For this, about 10,000 employees of KIT cooperate in a broad range of disciplines in research, academic education, and innovation. KIT is one of the German Universities of Excellence.

Division I – Biology, Chemistry, and Process Engineering, Institute of Physical Chemistry (IPC), KIT Department of Chemistry and Biosciences invites applications for a

University Professorship (W3)
“Theoretical Chemistry”

to be filled as of April 1, 2027.

For the University Professorship (W3) “Theoretical Chemistry”, we seek to appoint an outstanding scientist with an exceptional track record in a current research field of modern quantum chemistry (ab initio, density functional theory). The research focus should be on the development, implementation, and application of innovative and efficient quantum-chemical methods for modeling the electronic and geometric structures of molecules and their dynamics. The use of multi-scale modeling approaches and artificial intelligence methods, particularly machine learning, is highly desirable. Application areas for these methods include theoretical spectroscopy, the prediction of reaction mechanisms and (photo)chemical processes, as well as automated substance and material modeling. The successful candidate is expected to have a broad understanding of modeling methods in order to establish collaborative interfaces with existing and future research priorities at KIT. Examples include photochemical processes, catalysis, and quantum technologies based on molecular systems.

The University Professorship is part of the collegial leadership of the Institute of Physical Chemistry.

You will execute university tasks with a teaching obligation of 9 hours per week per semester.

We are seeking a candidate with extensive research experience in the areas outlined above, demonstrated by outstanding scientific achievements with international visibility. In addition, leadership experience and strong teamwork skills are expected, as well as the ability to provide comprehensive undergraduate teaching in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry (equivalent to 9 teaching hours per week). A willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration - for example, within Collaborative Research Centers, Clusters of Excellence, and to participate actively in academic self-governance - is required. Particular importance is placed on a proven record of securing third-party funding.

Employment is subject to Art. 14, par. (2) of the KIT Act in conjunction with Art. 47 LHG Baden-Württemberg (Act of Baden-Württemberg on Universities and Colleges).

Please mail your application with the relevant documents (curriculum vitae, list of publications, diplomas/certificates, teaching evaluations, description of previous and planned research and teaching activities, research and teaching concept, description of your own contributions in the above-mentioned areas, acquired third-party funds, statement on scientific honesty), preferably as a single PDF file, to Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Division I – Biology, Chemistry and Process Engineering, Head of Division Professor Dr. Andrea Robitzki, E-Mail: berufungsverfahren@bl1.kit.edu by January 7, 2026.

Vacancy number: 1317/2025

For further information, please contact Professor Dr. Marcus Elstner, phone: +49 721 608-45700, email: m.elstner@kit.edu.

We aim for a balanced representation of employees (f/m/d) in our workforce. Therefore, we kindly ask female applicants to apply for this job.

Recognized severely disabled persons will be preferred if they are equally qualified.

As a family-friendly university, KIT offers part-time employment, leaves of absence, a dual career service, and coaching to support the work-life balance.

Your personal data will be processed by KIT in accordance with this privacy policy.

You can find further information on the internet: www.kit.edu