Research assistant (f/m/d) in the field of “CAE method development”

Plastics have a very complex mechanical property profile, which is influenced by many factors such as temperature or load time. The mechanical properties can also depend on the process. Discontinuous fiber-reinforced plastics in particular have this dependency, as the fiber orientation in the component results from the local flow conditions during the process. In order to be able to take the influences into account in the dimensioning, a continuous further development of design methods is necessary. The “CAE method development” working group is therefore concerned with the development and refinement of dimensioning methods in order to improve the design of plastics. The main focus here is on the material-specific mapping of the material behavior of discontinuous fiber-reinforced plastics.

As head of the working group you will be responsible for the scientific and financial planning and implementation of research projects in the field of computer-aided design and dimensioning of plastics. As part of this work, you will lead a motivated team of student assistants and supervise publicly funded research projects as well as projects with industrial partners and project, Bachelor’s and Master’s theses. In this context, you will actively participate in the definition of relevant questions and the derivation of new research ideas. You will also be responsible for teaching at RWTH Aachen University and will be in direct contact with our industrial partners. They establish and maintain intensive contacts with numerous national and international industrial companies and research institutes. Of course, you will represent your specialist area in presentations and lectures at conferences, symposia and in training and further education.

You have successfully completed a diploma or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, computational engineering science or simulation sciences at a technical college or university or are about to finish your studies. Ideally, you already have previous experience of working with finite element simulation software and dimensioning components. Basic knowledge of Python, modeling, data science (machine learning) and practical experience in testing plastics are advantageous. You enjoy working independently and are able to work on complex problems in a structured manner. They are also open in their dealings with other people and have the ability to motivate themselves and others. In addition to German, you have a very good command of written and spoken English.

We offer you an exciting, varied and versatile position in an open-minded, highly motivated team of scientists in which you will work independently. Your tasks will enable you to have intensive contact with partners from both industry and science. In addition, we offer you the opportunity to do a doctorate in the above-mentioned subject area.