Student Assistant (HiWi) (f/m/div) in Computational Mechanics and Intelligent Structures

The Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) conducts research to advance intelligent systems that perceive, learn, and interact. Through fundamental research across computational, physical, and social dimensions, we shape artificial intelligence and robotics to advance knowledge and benefit society.

We are looking for a

Student Assistant (HiWi) (f/m/div) in Computational Mechanics and Intelligent Structures

The Mechanics for Intelligent Structures research group, led by Dr. Renate Sachse at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS), is seeking a student assistant (HiWi) to support ongoing research activities in the field of computational and nonlinear mechanics of active and adaptive structures.

Roles & Responsibilities

The student assistant will support ongoing research activities in the Mechanics for Intelligent Structures group and gain hands-on experience in computational mechanics and research-oriented scientific work. Depending on background, interests, and project needs, the student may contribute to specific research tasks or work on a well-defined subproject, while also assisting with general research activities within the group.

Typical tasks may include:

• working on a small, well-defined research subtask or project under supervision,
• contributing to the validation of computational models using experimental data,
• supporting the development, implementation, and testing of computational and numerical models,
• assisting with finite element simulations, post-processing, and visualization of results,
• interacting with PhD students and collaborators across different research areas.

The exact responsibilities will be adapted to the student’s background, skills, and interests, as well as the needs of ongoing research projects.

Education & Experience

Applicants should

• be currently enrolled in a Master’s program in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a related field at a university in Germany,
• have a solid interest in mechanics, numerical methods, and computational modeling,
• have basic programming experience (e.g. Python and/or MATLAB; C++ is a plus),
• be able to work independently and reliably,
• be able to work on site at the Max-Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Stuttgart,
• have good oral and written communication skills in English.

Our offer

• A paid student assistant position (14,40 € per hour)
• Flexible working hours (up to 20 hours per week) compatible with your studies
• Hands-on research experience in a newly established, international research group
• Close interaction with PhD students and the group leader
• Opportunity to deepen skills in computational mechanics and scientific programming
• Project duration of up to 10-12 months. Contracts are given per semester.

Application

Applications should include the following documents (in English):

• Cover letter (maximum two pages), describing the applicant’s academic background and research interests, as well as their academic and personal motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Curriculum vitae , including a summary of education, research experience, relevant skills, and (if applicable) publications or software contributions
• Transcript(s) of records from current and previous degree programs

Application without these documents including the letter will not be considered.

Please send the requested documents in a single PDF file , via the application portal.

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Renate Sachse at [email protected] .

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

Closing date for applications

The posting is open until filled.