City: Aachen
Date: Oct 29, 2026
Student Assistant in the Field of Laser Functionalization of Thin Films (all genders)
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 Institute for Laser Technology ILT, we may not be developing lightsabers to fight the dark side of the Force, but our innovations often sound like something out of science fiction. That’s because we’re shaping the technologies and processes for the future of digital manufacturing, packaging and scanning technology, and many other laser-based applications—such as 3D printing and laser fusion.
In the Thin Film Processing group, we focus on developing processes for the laser-based functionalization of thin films. Functionalization can involve, for example, drying, sintering, melting, or crystallization to adjust the film’s conductivity, adhesion, impermeability, or other properties.
One focus of our work is printed electronics (e.g., for strain gauges and temperature sensors). We also produce the layers to be processed ourselves using digital printing methods. Another key area is process development for new, environmentally friendly anti-adhesive coatings (PFAS-free).
If you’d like to be part of an innovative team and are interested in helping shape the technologies of tomorrow, then you’ve come to the right place! The position is based in Aachen—take this opportunity to contribute your ideas and work with us on groundbreaking solutions.
Be part of change
- As part of your student assistant role, you will assist with the preparation and conduct of experiments
- In the chemistry lab, you will carefully prepare samples and assist with other lab tasks as needed
- After receiving appropriate training, you will work with Class 4 lasers and multi-axis systems
- You will assist with sample preparation using inkjet printers for metallic nanoparticles and dispensers for polymer insulation layers
- When analyzing samples, you will use techniques such as light microscopy, profilometry, 4-point measurements, and cross-section analyses, and document the results using Excel, Python, Origin, or PowerPoint
What you contribute
- You are enrolled in a degree program such as mechanical engineering, materials science, materials engineering, electrical engineering, chemistry, physics, or a comparable field
- You are interested in technical problems and work responsibly, carefully, independently, and in a structured manner
- You have already gained some practical experience in independently conducting and clearly documenting laboratory experiments
- Knowledge of laser technology, operating CNC machines, or Python is a plus but not required
What we offer
- Team spirit: Creative and interdisciplinary working environment, highly motivated team of experts, flat hierarchies and informal culture.
- Workplace: Excellent range of machines and equipment.
- Involvement: Independent project work and room for innovative ideas in applied research.
- Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.
- Development opportunities: With us, you have the opportunity for individual development through a wide range of training opportunities.
- Advantages: Opportunity to benefit from exciting corporate benefits.
- Getting here: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an e-charging station and a multi-storey car park.
- Prospects: The opportunity to write your thesis.
Compensation is based on the general company agreement governing the employment of support staff.
The weekly work schedule is 12-16 hours and will be determined on an individual basis during the interview.
The position is initially limited to 12 months, with the goal of extending it for the duration of the student’s studies.
Questions about this position will be answered by:
Adam El-Sarout
Phone: + 49 241 8906-363
Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT
Requisition Number: 86074
Application Deadline: 11/25/2026
