170553 Published: 28.05.2026 IT Innovation and Research Munich New IT Innovation and Research M[...]

PhD Computational Design for Automotive Engineering and Design Processes (f/m/x)

THE FUTURE IS WHAT WE CREATE WHEN WE TAKE OUR VISIONS TO THE LIMITS.

PHD AT THE BMW GROUP.

Bridging the gap between your doctoral studies and the kind of career challenge you’re looking for isn’t always easy. That’s why our ProMotion PhD programme gives you the opportunity to apply your passion and scientific expertise to very real challenges that could shape the future of mobility. If selected, you’ll have the chance to really develop your own future career path with us through your practice‑related thesis, promote your chosen specialty from within – and position yourself to secure the career you’ve always wanted.

We, the BMW Group are offering an exciting PhD position focused on fabrication‑aware‑design to advance car design and development. This research topic resides at the nexus of design considerations, functional evaluation, and manufacturing constraints within an end‑to‑end development process, integrated into a coherent engineering workflow.

What awaits you?

• Developing methods, algorithms and development processes for generating geometries with given requirements, such as manufacturability, design aesthetics, structural mechanics, weight and cost.
• Analysis and integration of Fabrication requirements and constraints in the design framework in order to generate suitable geometries, e.g. through mathematical formulation.
• The vision is to enable innovative techniques in the real‑life car development.
• Tight collaboration with universities, as well as various BMW engineering and manufacturing departments is required.
• Publication of results and active contribution to the research community within BMW and the broader automotive ecosystems.

What should you bring along?

• University degree in architecture, computer science, mathematics, engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Basic knowledge in Additive Manufacturing and Robotics and in programming (e.g. Python).
• Good understanding of CAx artifacts (3D geometry, simulation model, etc.) and related workflows used in product design and development including aesthetic design aspects.
• Knowledge in graphical programming (low code, e.g. Synera, Grasshopper).
• Knowledge in basic vehicle design and automotive technology.
• Experience with commercial CAD, CAM, CAE, PIDO and optimization software.
• A track record of research contributions (publications, conference talks, or equivalent) is a plus.
• Business fluent English; German language skills are a plus.

What we offer?

• Digital offers & mobile working.
• Apartment offers for students (subject to availability & only Munich).

You are interested in applied research with real‑world impact? Apply now!

At the BMW Group, we place great importance on equal treatment and equal opportunities. Our recruiting decisions are based on the personality, experience, and skills of the applicants.