No publications after Master’s—will it hurt my PhD applications in Europe?

I recently completed my Master's in Chemistry and want to apply for a fully funded PhD in Europe (especially Germany) in nanomaterials, nanoparticles, or carbon-based materials.
How do you usually find professors or research groups in your field? Is it better to apply to advertised PhD positions or contact professors directly?
Also, many PhD applicants seem to have publications, but my Master's didn't include research leading to a publication. How common is it to get into a PhD without publications, and is there any way to publish after completing a Master's?
I'd appreciate any advice from people who have gone through this process.