
Join the IKV team
As a research engineer intending to do a PhD
At IKV, we offer an almost unique opportunity for aspiring scientists to realise their full potential in plastics engineering research and to develop in a dynamic environment. Research associates at IKV enjoy a variety of benefits that not only help them in their academic development, but can also significantly shape their professional future. As a research engineer, you will immerse yourself in scientific methods and issues while working on industrial projects. You will gain experience in structuring and organising projects, gain your first leadership experience and have the opportunity to learn the necessary tools to solve complex problems in industry and science in a variety of ways.
Opportunities and challenges
Independent subject area:
With us, you have the opportunity to define your own doctoral project and design research questions that interest and motivate you personally.
Freedom to research:
Explore a topic within our research areas that is particularly close to your heart. We encourage you to pursue your interests and skills and offer you unlimited opportunities to put your ideas into practice.
Creative and dynamic team:
You will be part of a dedicated team of scientists and guide students who are passionate about innovative solutions in plastics technology.
Building a research reputation:
By presenting your results at renowned conferences and having the opportunity to do a doctorate at IKV, you can build up your research reputation and establish yourself as an expert in your field.
Industry reference:
With us, you will work on issues that have practical relevance for the economy.
Network:
Right from the start, you will build up relationships with our broad network of partners in the plastics industry and thus develop your own professional network.
IKV is more than just a research facility – it is an inspiring community that drives innovation and excellence in plastics processing.
Dr.-Ing. Malte Schön
The boundary conditions
We will employ you as a research assistant.
During your time with us, you will work in a full-time position and take over the management of a working group with personnel and financial responsibility.
You will take on responsible tasks in various projects.
You will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, both public and industry-sponsored, covering a wide range of topics.
From day 1, you will take on responsible tasks.
With us, you will be immediately involved in positions of responsibility and have the opportunity to develop and strengthen your leadership and management skills.
We guide you and give you the opportunity to develop your skills.
We offer ongoing training opportunities, including the AssEx (Assistant Excursion) program, to continuously expand and deepen your skills.
We will show you how you can present yourself and your topics convincingly.
Regular presentations at seminars, scientific conferences and in front of industry consortia train your ability to communicate at a high level to your target group. An invaluable competitive advantage throughout your (professional) life, whether in industry or science.
What you will learn with us
Experience in leadership and project management:
You will gain valuable experience in leading teams and projects and develop your project management skills.
Prioritisation and delegation of tasks:
You will learn how to organise your work effectively, set priorities and delegate tasks in a targeted manner in order to work efficiently.
Familiarisation with new topics:
Due to the variety of projects, you will be continuously familiarised with new topics and issues, developing a broad knowledge base and the ability to quickly and efficiently explore new subject areas.
Preparation and presentation of results:
You will learn how to prepare and present your results convincingly, both within the institute and at (inter)national conferences.
Entry into the plastics industry:
You will gain a comprehensive insight into the plastics industry and become part of the sector as a recognised expert. You will make valuable contacts with various companies that will also be of use to you after your doctorate.
Become part of our team
We offer a variety of specific research topics for research engineers and potential doctoral candidates, which can be found in our current job offers. However, we also welcome qualified graduates who are interested in scientific work in the field of plastics engineering but do not yet wish to commit themselves to a specific topic. We strongly encourage you to send us your unsolicited application.

Who we are looking for
Graduates of technical or scientific courses of study will find prospects with us!
We are looking for clever minds with a great deal of curiosity and creativity, who are characterised by a strong sense of initiative, a systematic way of working and perseverance. As a good team player with excellent communication skills, a sense of responsibility and reliability, you’ve come to the right place. We welcome mechanical engineers, plastics engineers, e-technicians, computer scientists, chemists and all graduates of technical or scientific courses with an interest in plastics technology. If you are ready to take your career to the next level and become part of the leading institute in plastics technology, then apply to IKV now and discover the exciting opportunities that await you!