Master's thesis -Automated Generation and Validation of JSON-LD for Semantic Integration

In modern and increasingly decentralized data ecosystems, the automated integration of heterogeneous systems plays a central role. The goal of this thesis is to automatically generate semantically enriched JSON‑LD from existing JSON‑based API endpoints, leveraging ontology recommendations and domain‑specific knowledge models. This should significantly reduce manual modeling effort and enable simple, interoperable data exchange.

The work contributes to the digitalization of the energy sector by applying semantic methods to interconnect previously isolated data sources. This enables new value creation, e.g., through more efficient data usage, automated analyses, and improved collaboration between actors. In the long term, it supports the energy transition, as digital interoperability is a key requirement for flexibility, transparency, and the integration of modern energy generation units and storage systems.

Be part of change

• Automatic derivation of JSON‑LD contexts and structures from JSON data
• Use of ontology rankings to generate semantically correct types and properties
• Validation using SHACL, SPARQL, or reasoning
• Prototypical implementation of a pipeline for transforming API data into JSON‑LD
• Evaluation with real or synthetic interfaces from energy or IoT systems

The detailed design of the thesis can be adapted to the student's interests.

What You Contribute

• You plan to start your master’s thesis within the next 6 months and are looking for a clearly defined, technically and methodologically grounded research topic.
• Ongoing studies in computer science, engineering, energy technology, data science, or a comparable field.
• Interest in data processing, semantics/ontologies, modeling, or digital system architectures.
• Motivation for analytical and innovative thinking as well as structured scientific work.
• Willingness to work independently - and to ask questions.
• Basic communication skills in German and/or English (for literature and collaboration).
• Additional Requirement: At least three on‑site presentations in Ilmenau are expected during the course of the thesis (kick‑off, mid‑term presentation, and final presentation).

What We Offer

• Expert supervision by a research team that combines methodological depth with practical implementation.
• A clearly scoped topic with room for your own ideas - no "just do anything."
• A working environment that values transparency, structure, and reliable expectations.
• Access to modern tools and technologies.
• Opportunity to contribute to publications, demonstrators, or research projects - depending on your interests.
• A friendly and appreciative team that values exchange and solid scientific work.
• Flexible working hours and the option to work remotely.
• Collaboration with the modern Fraunhofer IOSB‑AST in Ilmenau - on‑site or digitally.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Anna‑Lena Peh

Fraunhofer Institute of Optronics, System Technologies and Image Exploitation IOSB
Requisition Number: 83953
Application Deadline: