Summary
Esslingen University is seeking a Scientific Research Associate to join the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Systems at the Stadtmitte Campus. The position focuses on the scientific investigation and further development of additive manufacturing processes for metallic materials, particularly Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Metals (L-PBF-M).
The successful candidate will investigate relationships between process parameters, material behavior, microstructure, and component properties, using modern laboratory infrastructure including a TRUMPF TruPrint 3000. The position also offers the opportunity for scientific qualification through a PhD.
Scientific Research Associate – Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Materials and Materials Engineering (L-PBF-M)
Designation
Scientific Research Associate (Wissenschaftliche:r Angestellte:r)
Reference/Code: MS/2604
Employment: Up to 100%
Contract: Initially 2 years, fixed-term
Salary: Up to Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L, depending on responsibilities and personal qualifications
Job Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Scientific Research Associate |
| Research Field | Additive Manufacturing of Metallic Materials & Materials Engineering |
| Technology | Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Metals (L-PBF-M) |
| Institution | Esslingen University |
| Faculty | Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Systems |
| Location | Stadtmitte Campus, Esslingen, Germany |
| Employment | Up to 100% |
| Contract Duration | Initially 2 years |
| Salary | Up to TV-L E13 |
| Reference Number | MS/2604 |
| PhD Opportunity | Yes |
| Application Deadline | September 6, 2026 |
Research Area
- Additive manufacturing of metallic materials
- Laser Powder Bed Fusion of Metals (L-PBF-M)
- Materials engineering
- Process optimization
- Metal additive manufacturing
- Microstructure and defect analysis
- Mechanical properties of additively manufactured components
- Laser material processing
- Process–material–property relationships
Location
Esslingen University, Stadtmitte Campus, Esslingen, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
The research is conducted in a modern laboratory equipped with a TRUMPF TruPrint 3000 and comprehensive materials characterization facilities, with close collaboration with regional industrial companies.
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants should have:
- An above-average completed university degree (Master’s or Diploma) in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Production Engineering
- Materials Science
- or a comparable discipline.
- Knowledge of additive manufacturing and/or materials engineering.
- Ideally, initial experience with:
- Metallic materials
- Laser material processing
- Additive manufacturing
- Experimental materials characterization.
- Strong enthusiasm for scientific research.
- Independent, structured, and goal-oriented working style.
- Teamwork skills and initiative.
- Very good German and English language skills.
Job Description
The selected researcher will be responsible for:
- Independently working on scientific research questions related to additive manufacturing of metallic materials.
- Planning, conducting, and evaluating experimental investigations using a TRUMPF TruPrint 3000.
- Developing and optimizing L-PBF-M process strategies.
- Investigating process–material–property relationships.
- Characterizing materials with respect to microstructure, defect formation, and mechanical properties.
- Participating in publicly funded research projects and industrial collaborations.
- Publishing scientific research findings in academic journals.
- Presenting results at national and international conferences.
- Supervising student thesis and project work related to the research projects.
What the University Offers
The position provides the opportunity to:
- Work on current research questions with high scientific and industrial relevance.
- Use modern laboratory infrastructure and industrial additive manufacturing equipment.
- Collaborate closely with regional and international industrial and research partners.
- Pursue further scientific qualification, including a PhD.
- Work within an interdisciplinary research team with significant scope for independent work.
- Benefit from flexible working hours and home-office opportunities.
- Receive 30 days of annual leave.
- Access professional development, training, and language courses.
- Benefit from health and workplace programs, JobRad, and subsidized JobTicket BW.
- Access family-friendly university initiatives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official online application portal of Esslingen University and quote the reference number MS/2604.
Apply through the official online application portal
For further information about the position, contact Prof. Dr.-Ing. Lukas Löber at the university.
Last Date to Apply
September 6, 2026
Applications must be submitted through the online application portal by this date.
