Master thesis »High-throughput characterization of materials fatigue properties«

Job description

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft ( ) currently operates 76 institutes and research institutions throughout Germany and is the world’s leading applied research organization. Around 30,000 employees work with an annual research budget of 2.9 billion euros. At the Fraunhofer IWM, 330 employees conduct research on materials and components with the aim of better understanding, developing, processing, and using them. In our projects, we bridge the gap between the properties of materials and the durability, safety and function of technical systems. We show ways and solutions for more energy efficiency and sustainability. After all, materials are crucial for climate neutrality, for the careful use of our planet's limited resources and for the sustainable transformation of our economy. Be part of change In our meso- and micromechanics group, we deal with understanding materials degradation through advanced, small-scale characterization techniques. You will utilize a novel measurement setup which can characterize fatigue properties of materials at very high throughput. This approach significantly accelerates fatigue testing and enables the rapid identification of promising fatigue-resistant materials. A wide variety of tasks await you: As a master thesis student you will be directly involved in our day-to-day research. On one hand, the thesis entails developing the automated high-throughput characterization setup as well as applying and validating the methodology on thin-film and/or additively manufactured material specimens. On the other hand, the thesis comprises analytical characterization of the specimen through electron microscopy and spectroscopy to understand the underlying degradation phenomena. In addition, you will coordinate with collaborators on specimen fabrication and characterization and develop automated data analysis workflows for the large amounts of fatigue data generated. What you contribute Your professional background: Currently pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Sustainable Materials, Microsystems Engineering, or a related subject, you have a solid understanding of material fatigue and experimental mechanics and are eager to apply this knowledge in experimental research. You have experience with microscopy, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and, ideally, thin-film characterization and analysis. Familiarity with computer-aided design and technical drawing, preferably using Autodesk Inventor, as well as the Finite Element Method (FEM), ideally including modal analysis using Abaqus, complements your technical background. Knowledge of Python is required for data analysis and LabVIEW is advantageous for potential minor adjustments of the control software. Qualifications that complement your profile: You enjoy hands-on experimental work and systematic investigations in the laboratory, particularly in the field of (micro)mechanical experiments. You approach complex technical challenges independently, develop your own solutions, and critically reflect on your results. A curious and analytical mindset helps you understand the underlying mechanisms and identify new approaches. You are also excited about conducting research in a research institute at the interface of scientific research and industry-relevant applications. What we offer Always something new: Working at the Fraunhofer IWM means researching innovative topics in an established research institute. Thanks to our flat hierarchies and open working culture, you will always have the right support at your disposal. What we offer you: Through flexible working hours and mobile working, we are committed to ensuring that you can balance your free time and work. In family emergencies, we offer emergency childcare and allow you to bring your children to our parent-child office if necessary, in order to react flexibly to unforeseen situations or childcare bottlenecks. You can also benefit from a wide range of employee discounts on events, furniture, clothing and much more. This culture awaits you: Our open institute culture aims to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable here. We pursue this goal, for example, through various leisure groups and our networking event as part of the onboarding process. Come and join us and see for yourself! Remuneration is based on the general works agreement for research / student assistants. The position is initially limited to 12 months. It is possible to extend the position for the duration of your studies. The work will be performed within the framework of 30 hours per month. 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. 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. The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. 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. Apply online and shape the future of Fraunhofer IWM together with us! Our recruiter Lea Hauserstein will be happy to answer all your questions about the position and our application process. You can reach us by e-mail at or by phone at +49(0) 761 5142-234. Ali Riza Durmaz will answer all technical questions under +49(0) 761 5142-109. Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM Requisition Number: 85450 Application Deadline: