Research engineer (m-f-div)

The Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems is looking for a Research engineer (m-f-div) to join their team.

This role involves understanding constraints and requirements for microstructure-fabrication-physical properties interactions in micro-and nano-sized systems based on physical vapor deposition. This requires knowledge in materials selection, conceptual modelling, machine learning for materials design, analysis of microstructures, statistical error analysis on proven and novel fabrication process, inspection and validation, as well as documentation and communication with project stakeholders. The work often involves the integration of novel micro- and nano-structures into sensors, actuators or micro-robots and the monitoring of the achieved performance of such devices. MPI'ssmall international team works closely with scientists, students and other engineers to understand requirements and brainstorm solutions which aid the requirements of the research of the institute. The variety of projects that they conduct makes their work atmosphere highly dynamic and diverse. The Materials CSF is currently looking for a capable materials science research engineer to increase their fundamental skillset and speed up the overall development cycle.

What is expected

Project Organization

• communicate either as part of a team or directly with researchers
• collect, assess, and evaluate requirements and constraints
• document progress and results

Materials Science Support

• microstructure-properties relation (magnetic, electron transport and mechanical)
• knowledge in different materials classes (polymer, ceramic, metals and semiconductors)
• design of tailored micro- and nanostructures
• understanding and implementation of analysis tools
• selection of appropriate material(s)

Fabrication and Analysis

• fabrication of low-dimensional nano- and micro-structures
• selection of appropriate physical vapor deposition techniques
• operating molecular beam epitaxy system (MBE) with associated components
• post-fabrication validation and analysis
• knowledge documentation and dissemination

Education & Experience

• Master of Materials Science
• strong experience in vacuum technology
• experience with physical vapor deposition techniques
• hands‑on experience in experimental setup preparation, including instrumentation, calibration, and safety protocols
• hardware problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills
• ideally experience involving coordination and planning of projects
• ability to work both in teams and independently
• familiarity with the scientific publication process, including data handling, figure preparation, and manuscript contribution
• strong written and oral communication skills in English
• good written and oral communication skills in German

The offer

• Salary and contract will be based on qualifications and previous professional experience according to the Public Service Wage Agreement (TVöD Bund) guidelines
• financial contribution to the job ticket (ÖPNV)
• affiliation with a daycare centre
• language courses, access to language learning apps
• Company pension plan and group accident insurance
• The position is offered permanently. The start date will be discussed individually.

Application

To apply, please include a cover letter, your CV and relevant certificates in your application. Please upload it as one PDF file to the application portal.

Questions related to this position should be addressed to Prof. Dr. Gunther Richter, head of the Materials Central Scientific Facility, at

The position will be open until January31, 2026

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.