PhD Student Materials science (m/f/d)

Research Associate (m/f/x)

At the Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Institute of Manufacturing, the Chair of Laser-Based Manufacturing offers a full-time position as Research Associate (m/f/x). Subject to personal qualification, employees are remunerated according to salary group E13 TV‑L. The position starts at the earliest possible date within a project funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). It is limited to 36 months and governed by the Fixed Term Research Contracts Act (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz – WissZeitVG). The role offers the opportunity to obtain further academic qualification (usually PhD).

Activities and responsibilities

The focus of the activity lies in the research and development of laser‑based micro‑structuring methods for the targeted functionalization of metallic surfaces. The aim is to specifically adjust wettability with respect to oils through suitable surface structures, as well as to influence friction and wear properties (tribology). Duties include planning and execution of laser processes for micro‑structuring, systematic investigation of the relationships between process parameters, resulting surface topography and functional properties, and development and setup of suitable experimental and analysis environments. Comprehensive characterization of the generated surfaces with regard to topography, wettability behavior and tribological properties using appropriate measurement and testing methods is also essential. The project is carried out in close cooperation with the Technische Universität Wien.

Qualification profile

• University degree appropriate to the field of activity
• Experience in materials engineering and/or materials science, and in conducting scientific projects
• Experience in project coordination (preferred)
• Flexibility with regard to tasks
• Very good German and English language skills (C1), both written and spoken
• Experience in laser technology is an advantage