Data Steward

Salary: 62.000 - 67.000 € per year

Requirements:

A degree in computer science with an understanding of scientific work in the natural sciences, or a degree in the natural sciences (e.g. materials science, chemistry, physics, life sciences) with knowledge of computer science

Experience in data management, ideally in a laboratory environment

Knowledge of data structures, metadata and FAIR principles

Experience with the introduction and handling of ELN, LIMS or similar systems is a plus

Basic understanding of databases and interfaces; APIs are an advantage

Experience in data modelling or structured information preparation

Affinity for digital tools and systems

Familiarity with data preservation and long-term archiving standards

Clear communication skills and the ability to communicate complex technical issues in an understandable way

Strong scientific understanding for interdisciplinary work

Structured, process-oriented way of working

Ability to engage users and accompany change

Independent and proactive approach

Strong ability to work in a team

Willingness to pursue continuous professional development

Responsibilities:

Ensure data quality, consistency, timeliness and completeness

Define and maintain data standards, metadata and ontologies

Support users, such as scientists, with structured data entry

Support governance issues, including access rights, audit trails and GxP

Improve ELN workflows by analyzing and optimizing paper-based or legacy laboratory workflows for digital formats

Support the institute in introducing the ELN

Train and empower users

Support the implementation of data governance and compliance requirements

Identify, analyze and remediate data quality issues

Collaborate on migration and digitization projects

Participate in preparing and reviewing data management plans (DMPs) in accordance with funding agency specifications, such as DFG and EU requirements

Ensure the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable)

Participate in working groups at the Institute and possibly the Center

Technologies:

Support

Mobile

More:

We are seeking a Data Steward for the Institute of Functional Materials for Sustainability at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon in Teltow. The position is available as soon as possible, can be part-time, and is initially limited to one year, with a clear prospect of extension based on strong performance. The application deadline is 29 October 2026. We conduct international research for a changing world, with around 1,000 employees from more than 60 nations working on climate change, sustainable use of coastal systems and resource-compatible improvements to quality of life. Our Institute develops functional materials for renewable energy and biological applications, spanning materials synthesis, advanced operando characterization and lab-scale testing, and using robotic and high-throughput methods and data science to accelerate sustainable materials discovery. We offer a varied role, six weeks of annual holiday, public-sector collective agreement social benefits and remuneration up to pay grade 13 (EntgO Bund), flexible and mobile working options, training and development opportunities, modern technical infrastructure, family-friendly services and childcare options, health promotion programmes, corporate benefits, an International Welcome Office with guest accommodation, and a well-connected research campus with networking opportunities and a conditional Deutschlandticket subsidy. Equal opportunity is an important part of our personnel policy, and we strongly encourage qualified women to apply. Severely disabled applicants and those with equivalent status who are equally suitable will receive preferential consideration within the framework of legal requirements.

last updated 42 week of 2026