PhD Position in Agentic AI in Computational Modeling at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Germany

Summary

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon invites applications for a 3-year doctoral (PhD) research position in Agentic AI in Computational Modeling at the Institute of Material Systems Modeling in Geesthacht, Germany. This position focuses on pioneering autonomous agentic AI frameworks to automate computational simulations across materials science, biomechanics, and environmental systems.

Overview Table

Designation

Doctoral Researcher / PhD Candidate (Part-time, 19.5 h/week, 3-year fixed-term appointment).

Research Area

This project resides at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Computational Modeling. Key areas of investigation include:

• Agentic AI systems and autonomous workflows for computer simulations.
• Computational Material Science across macroscale and atomic scales.
• Biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and chemical process engineering.
• Environmental modeling, including coastal dynamics and climate research.

Location

Institute of Material Systems Modeling, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, Geesthacht (Hamburg Metropolitan Region), Germany.

Scholarship & Position Description

Developing computational models and running simulations in science and engineering typically demands extensive domain expertise. Agentic Artificial Intelligence offers a transformative opportunity to automate these complex tasks. As a doctoral researcher, you will join an interdisciplinary team to push the boundaries of agentic AI systems that independently develop, execute, and calibrate simulation pipelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement novel agentic AI architectures for computational modeling and simulations.
• Deploy autonomous systems across computational engineering, materials science, and environmental modeling.
• Publish scientific findings in top-tier peer-reviewed international journals and present results at global conferences.

What the Institute Offers:

• Remuneration and comprehensive social benefits according to the federal collective agreement (up to EG 13 EntgO Bund).
• 6 weeks of annual leave plus company holidays between Christmas and New Year.
• Flexible working hours and mobile working options.
• Support via the International Welcome Office (including guest accommodation) and a dedicated PhD Buddy Program.
• Subsidy for public transit (Deutschlandticket) and modern research infrastructure.

Eligibility / Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following academic and technical criteria:

• Degree: A completed Master’s degree in Computational Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a closely related computational discipline.
• Academic Record: Outstanding academic grades in relevant coursework throughout Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
• Programming Proficiency: Strong programming and software development skills in Python (experience with C++ is highly advantageous; coding abilities will be evaluated during the interview).
• Theoretical Background: Solid foundational knowledge in applied mathematics, numerical simulation, and engineering fundamentals.
• Desirable Skills: Prior experience with ontologies, knowledge graphs, or robotics is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Language Skills: Excellent spoken and written scientific communication skills in English.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should prepare and submit their comprehensive application dossier through the official Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon online job portal. Required documents include:

• Detailed Cover Letter stating your research motivation and background
• Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic degree certificates and official transcripts of records
• References or contact details of academic referees

Last Date for Apply

September 23, 2026

Apply Link

To submit your application, visit the official vacancy announcement:

Apply Now at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon (JobID: 1061 – 2026/MS 7)