Research Assistant/Associate (f/m/d) Simulation- and AI-assisted Materials and Process Development for Fusion Applications

Weitere Informationen

The successful candidate will be employed under a regular employment contract.
The position is to be filled at the earliest possible date and offered for a fixed term for an initial period of 2 years.
An extension for a minimum of two years is foreseen.
The fixed-term employment is possible as it constitutes one of the fixed-term options of the Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz (German Act on Fixed-term Scientific Contracts).
This is a full-time position.
The successful candidate has the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree in this position.
The salary is based on the German public service salary scale (TV-L).
The position corresponds to a pay grade of EG 13 TV-L.

Unser Profil

The Institute of Materials Applications in Mechanical Engineering (IWM) conducts application-oriented research in materials engineering. Our work aims to address major societal challenges, including the energy transition, lightweight design, resource efficiency, and the circular economy.

Within the research field “Process Simulation, Powder Metallurgy and Ceramics”, we focus on the design and optimization of powder-based manufacturing processes, with a particular emphasis on sintering technologies. Using model-based approaches, we investigate how these processes can be transferred to complex component geometries and demanding high-performance applications. Advanced multiphysics simulations are closely combined with experimental studies to predict densification, microstructural evolution, and the resulting material properties in a reliable and quantitative manner.

A key current research focus is the simulation- and AI-assisted development of materials and processes for fusion energy applications. The goal is to develop and optimize manufacturing routes for advanced tungsten-based materials that are intended for use in fusion reactors. In this extreme environment, materials must withstand very high temperatures, mechanical stresses, and radiation exposure. By combining classical numerical simulation methods with data-driven and AI-based approaches, we aim to create efficient, robust, and sustainable manufacturing strategies for future fusion materials.

We strongly value the close integration of simulation, experimental work, and industrial application, as well as a supportive and collegial working environment. Great importance is placed on structured supervision and the successful completion of the doctoral degree. The doctoral research topic will be individually defined in close coordination and provides scope to integrate the candidate’s individual interests and strengths into their research work.

Ihr Profil

• You have completed a university degree (Master’s or Diplom) in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Materials Engineering, or a comparable discipline with above-average results.
• You are interested in materials for extreme service conditions, particularly for applications in fusion energy.
• You have basic knowledge of powder metallurgy, especially in sintering processes; experience with HIP, FAST/SPS is an advantage.
• You have interest in or experience with numerical simulation of materials and processes; knowledge of ABAQUS and/or COMSOL Multiphysics is highly desirable.
• You are open to AI- and data-driven methods for materials and process optimization (e.g., machine learning, digital twins).
• You work independently, in a structured and goal-oriented manner, and demonstrate a high level of initiative and teamwork skills.
• You have very good command of both German and English, written and spoken.

Ihre Aufgaben

• Independent execution of research projects in materials and process development for fusion applications.
• Numerical modeling and simulation of powder metallurgical process chains as well as microstructure and property evolution.
• Development and application of AI-assisted approaches for data-driven prediction and optimization of material and process properties.
• Planning, execution, and evaluation of experimental investigations to validate simulation and AI models.
• Close collaboration with national and international industrial and research partners, particularly in the field of fusion energy.
• Publication of research results in international scientific journals and presentation at national and international conferences.
• Participation in the acquisition of new research projects and the preparation of corresponding funding proposals.
• Involvement in teaching activities, including supervision of exercises, laboratory courses, and Bachelor’s and Master’s theses.

Über uns

RWTH is a certified family-friendly University. We support our employees in maintaining a good work-life balance with a wide range of health, advising, and prevention services, for example university sports. Employees who are covered by collective bargaining agreements and civil servants have access to an extensive range of further training courses and the opportunity to purchase a job ticket.
RWTH is an equal opportunities employer. We therefore welcome and encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, particularly from groups that are underrepresented at the University. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability or age. RWTH is strongly committed to encouraging women in their careers. Female applicants are given preference if they are equally suitable, competent, and professionally qualified, unless a fellow candidate is favored for a specific reason.
As RWTH is committed to equality of opportunity, we ask you not to include a photo in your application.
You can find information on the personal data we collect from applicants in accordance with Articles 13 and 14 of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) at http://www.rwth-aachen.de/dsgvo-information-bewerbung.

Besoldung / Entgelt

EG 13 TV-L