Job description
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 74 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society - more precisely: 30 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.
At the Fraunhofer IPT in Aachen, we work with more than 500 employees every day to make the production of the future more digital, more flexible and more sustainable. In the group »Integrated Production Machinery«, we specialize in optimizing manufacturing technologies for components used in energy conversion systems such as fuel cells and electrolyzers. With a focus on industrial applications, our expertise is concentrated on the fields of metallic bipolar plates for those applications.
As a student research assistant, you will support our team in developing automation methodology, machine learning models and data driven FEM simulation models for sheet metal forming processes. The position requires regular on-site presence at our institute in Aachen. The weekly working hours are at least 10 and at most 17 hours.
Be part of change
- CAE modelling and numerical simulation (e.g. sheet metal forming processes using ABAQUS, etc)
- Develop data-driven and machine learning-based models to improve the simulation and optimization of sheet metal forming processes
- Develop optimization methodologies for manufacturing process design and parameter identification
- Validation of the FEM and ML models through experimentation and documentation of results
What you contribute
- You are studying Computational Mechanics, Simulation Sciences, Mechanical Engineering or a comparable subject
- Initial experience in CAE modelling and FEM simulation (preferably Abaqus or Ansys) is required
- Prior knowledge of machine learning and experience in programming skills (preferably Python) is required
- Knowledge of Physics Informed Neural Networks (PINNs), PyTorch, TensorFlow is advantageous
- Experience with Fortran subroutines, automation scripting for FE software and CAD design (Solidworks, Catia) is advantageous
- Good language skills in English and/or German
What we offer
- Collaboration in innovative research projects and the ideal conditions to implement your knowledge from your studies and gain practical experience
- Flexible working to combine studies and job in the best possible way
- Opportunity to grow personally and benefit from our strong network in industry and research
- Would you like to deepen your knowledge further? We offer exciting topics for your thesis
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. Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.
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.
For any further information on this position please contact:
Yogesh Borole M.Sc.
Research Assistant »Integrated Production Machinery«
+49 241 8904-469
Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT
About this role
About Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
Company Overview
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft e.V.
HeadquartersMunich, Germany
Founded1949
SizeApproximately 31,900 employees worldwide with industrial revenues of €966 million in 2025 (source: fraunhofer.de)
What They Do
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is Germany’s leading organization for applied research, specializing in translating scientific findings into practical industrial applications. Their core business includes pre-competitive contract research that develops cross-industry technologies for both industry and society, including solutions for climate protection, healthcare, and artificial intelligence (AI) (source: fraunhofer.de). The organization operates 76 institutes and research units across Germany, as well as international locations in the USA, Europe, Asia, and South America, ensuring broad technological and geographic coverage (source: fraunhofer.de). A distinctive feature is the high proportion of industrial revenue, which keeps research market-oriented and closely aligned with the needs of the private sector (source: fraunhofer.de). The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft operates as a registered association (e.V.) and is primarily funded through a 90:10 mix of federal and state funds alongside contract research (source: fraunhofer.de).
Projects & Track Record
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has shown steady growth in industrial revenues and employed around 31,900 staff in 2024 and 2025 (source: fraunhofer.de). In 2025, industrial revenues rose to €966 million, including €768 million from industrial contracts and €198 million from licensing fees, with a total business volume of €3.574 billion (source: fraunhofer.de). The organization reported 507 invention disclosures and 439 patent applications in 2024, highlighting its strong innovation capacity and successful technology transfer (source: idw-online.de).
Recent Developments
Over the past two years, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft has further increased its industrial revenues while maintaining a stable workforce, indicating sustainable growth and strong demand for applied research (source: fraunhofer.de). Additionally, the number of patent applications and invention disclosures has remained high, confirming the organization’s innovative strength (source: idw-online.de). The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft continues to invest in expanding its international presence and developing cutting-edge technologies in areas such as artificial intelligence and climate protection (source: fraunhofer.de).
Working There
The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft offers a wide range of employment opportunities in research, administration, and technical fields, as well as student positions such as internships, theses, and doctoral roles (source: fraunhofer.de). The work culture is characterized by flat hierarchies, interdisciplinary project collaboration, and international teams, supported by structured development programs like TALENTA for women in science and leadership (source: fraunhofer.de). Documented benefits include flexible working hours, remote work options, family-friendly measures, parental leave support, training opportunities, company pension schemes, and a subsidy for the Deutschlandticket (source: fraunhofer.de).
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