Research Associate - Laser Technology

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) 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. Fraunhofer is the largest organization for application-oriented research in Europe. Our research fields are geared to people's needs: Health, Safety, Communication, Mobility, Energy and Environment. We are creative, we shape technology, we design products, we improve processes, we open up new paths.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF in Jena conducts application-oriented research on behalf of industry and within the framework of publicly funded joint projects. The services offered by Fraunhofer IOF include system solutions, ranging from new design concepts, the development of new technologies, manufacturing and measurement processes, to the construction of prototypes and pilot series in the wavelength range from millimeters to nanometers.

We are looking for a research associate for the group "Laser Technology" in the department "Laser and Fiber Technology". You will be responsible to independently plan and conduct challenging theoretical and experimental research on application-specific laser systems. 

The tasks for this position cover different types of projects – ranging from background research and theoretical studies to the realization of laser systems on prototype level and their characterization. The laser-specific research tasks, which focus on high-power fiber lasers and customized laser solutions for special applications, are directly linked to design challenges and the consideration of external operating conditions (e.g., application in space).
 

What you will do

• Developing customized laser systems according to customer or project requirements, up to prototype level
• Performing laser experiments in the optics laboratory, including investigations at high optical power, and characterizing laser systems using a comprehensive portfolio of instruments
• Investigating and handling optical fibers (splicing, cleaving, characterizing, etc.) and optics
• Evaluating and interpreting research results as well as preparing documentation and project reports
• Using and, if necessary, extending existing calculation and simulation tools to deepen scientific understanding
• After an appropriate introduction, you will also independently plan R&D projects, primarily in the field of fiber lasers and related applications
• Support in project initiation and acquisition as well as taking on project responsibility
• Active participation in the scientific community by publishing in scientific journals and contributing to national and international conferences

What you bring to the table

• Completed scientific university studies (Dipl., Dipl.-Ing., M. Sc.) in physics, laser technology, optical technologies, electrical engineering, or a similar field of study as well as experience in working with lasers
• At best, a completed PhD as well as first scientific publications, ideally in areas such as fiber technology, laser technology or similar; the possibility for pursuing a PhD can also be supported in this position
• Ability to question and interpret observations and data and derive strategies to solve problems based on your sound knowledge of physical phenomena
• Knowledge of laser simulation, optical design, handling and preparation of optical fibers, and optical metrology is advantageous
• Optimally experience in programming with Matlab, Python, Labview etc. as well as profound handling of relevant IT tools (e.g., Origin, Zemax etc.)
• High degree of independence, reliability, a systematic way of working as well as analytical and conceptual skills 
• Commitment, team orientation, and communication skills
• Good command of German (B2 minimum) and English, both written and spoken 
• Friendly, reliable, and open manner

What you can expect

• Personal and professional development in challenging, applied R&D projects
• Opportunity to actively shape and accentuate your own research focus
• Networking with first-class industrial partners
• Opportunity to participate in conferences, trade shows, and trainings in the international optics and fiber community
• Very well-equipped laboratories
• Collaboration in an interdisciplinary team, with emphasis on communication at eye level, respect, and recognition
• Flexible working hours and flat hierarchies that allow  individuality and efficiency to succeed personally and as a team

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. The position is initially limited to 3 years. We are looking for a long-term cooperation. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Additionally Fraunhofer may grant performance-based variable remuneration components.

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. 

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!
 

Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF 

www.iof.fraunhofer.de 

Requisition Number: 65852