Enlightening Science
European XFEL is an international non-profit company located in the Hamburg area in Germany.
It operates a 3.4 km-long X-ray laser, which produces X-rays of unique quality for studies in
physics, chemistry, the life sciences, materials research and other disciplines. The diverse
scientific facilities at European XFEL enable scientists from across the globe to carry out a wide
range of experimental techniques.
The Lighthouse Visitor Centre at European XFEL informs visitors about the facility and its research. Within the Lighthouse, the Xcool Lab provides extracurricular STEM education through two school laboratories, one focused on physics, and one focused on molecular biology and chemistry.
For our Communications group we are looking for a
Science Education Tutor (f/m/d) - part-time (20-30 hrs/week)
The Position
- Independently plan, coordinate, and deliver Xcool Lab activities in both laboratories (physics and molecular biology/chemistry), regularly taking the lead responsibility for a full Xcool Lab day
- Take responsibility for the preparation, organisation, implementation, and quality assurance of experiments, teaching materials, and course workflows before, during, and after Xcool Lab sessions
- Maintain and further refine safe operating procedures and ensure safe working environments for school students, tutors, and staff in coordination with the responsible Xcool Lab team
- Design, adapt, and evaluate didactic materials, experimental protocols, and age-appropriate teaching approaches for different target groups based on the conceptual and organisational guidelines provided by the Xcool Lab Coordinator
- Assume responsibility for the conceptual development and continuous improvement of experimental programmes and educational formats in physics and molecular biology/chemistry, in collaboration with the Xcool Lab Coordinator
- Contribute to internal knowledge sharing, documentation, reporting, and the evaluation of programme quality and participant feedback
- Coordinate student assistants and tutors, including onboarding, training, and professional guidance
- Serve as a contact point for school groups and teachers during Xcool Lab activities, helping to ensure a high-quality educational experience
- Guide tours of the exhibition and experiment hall, communicate the science and research of European XFEL to different audiences, and answer questions in an engaging and accessible way
- Contribute to outreach programmes and events both on and off campus and support visitor services at the Lighthouse as required
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in physics, molecular biology or a related field and at least basic knowledge in the other area. A background as a teacher is considered an asset.
- Either experience and knowledge in experimental physics or practical laboratory experience in molecular biology. Experience and knowledge in both areas is considered an asset.
- Willingness to pursue independent further training in both subject areas
- Practical experience with analysing and interpreting experimental results
- Ability to communicate concepts in physics and molecular biology/chemistry in an easy-to-understand way
- Organisational, communication and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work in a team, independence, sense of responsibility
- Fluency in German (C1) and a working knowledge of English (ability to do Xcool Lab days and to guide tours in both languages is considered an asset)
- Readiness to work on a flexible schedule on weekdays (specific days may vary from week to week) and at least some shifts requiring full-day availability
Reference Number
A-273
Duration
Initially limited to 2 years, an extension is possible.
Our offer
Become part of a vibrant international and multi-cultural team of scientists, engineers, technical and administrative staff. Be involved in cutting edge scientific and technical progress and participate in our international networks. Experience our atmosphere of tolerance and respect.Work-life balance & flexibility
- A family-friendly working environment (e.g. additional childcare days)
- Flexible working hours and options to work from home (depending on your role and tasks)
- 30 days of paid vacation, plus December 24th and 31st off (granted by the employer)
- Transparent compensation aligned with public service organizations in Germany
- Monthly gross salary range: min. 11/1 with €4,269.64 - max. 12/6 with €6,900.18, the actual level is defined by the individual work experience, see current tariff table. The values refer to full time and will be adjusted to fit the part-time model.
- Depending on the pay group, an annual special payment of 75-95% of one month’s salary is granted
- Partially funded public transportation Deutschlandticket
- Generous company pension scheme (6.45% of your monthly salary)
- Extensive relocation benefits to help you settle in smoothly
- English as company language, enabling easy collaboration in our international environment
- Extensive training opportunities, including subsidized English and German language courses
- Subsidized sports membership with access to over 7,000 sport clubs
- Monthly social events and company restaurant with employee discounts
- Free access to a professional mental health support platform
Further information about living in the Hamburg area can be found here.
Application
Please provide your CV and a motivation letter as well as any reference letters.The European XFEL GmbH is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and we promote and support diverse and heterogenous teams. Applicants with disabilities will be given preference over other equally qualified applicants.
