Job Description

The Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing SCAI in Sankt Augustin, near Bonn, has around 180 employees who research and develop innovative methods in the field of computational science and implement them in industrial practice as partners to industry.

The AI aided Scientific Discovery team is looking for a highly motivated researcher to work on the broad area of Physical AI, specifically methods that combine machine learning and optimization with physics-based simulation and/or physical constraints and translate these methods into impactful industrial applications. The position is designed to support a PhD pathway in collaboration with the Institute of Computer Science at University of Bonn.

Be part of change

Your research focus

• Learning- and optimization-based methods for physics-informed / simulation-aware modeling
• Efficient algorithms for design-space exploration (e.g., surrogate modeling, Bayesian optimization, differentiable programming)
• Hybrid approaches combining data-driven models + physical priors/constraints
• Robustness, uncertainty, and generalization in simulation-to-real / multi-fidelity settings

Your tasks

• Conduct independent research and publish at top venues (ML/simulation/optimization)
• Build prototypes and research software (clean, reproducible, well-documented)
• Work with simulation pipelines (e.g., FEM/CFD/physics engines) and industrial data
• Collaborate with Fraunhofer project teams and academic supervisors
• Present results to scientific and industrial audiences

Application domains (downstream)

You will validate and demonstrate methods in domains such as:

• Engineering design & CAE (e.g., structural/thermal/fluids workflows)
• Chemical and process industries (e.g. optimization, control, surrogate models)
• Related computational engineering problems where simulation and data meet

What you contribute

• Master of Science (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Applied Mathematik, Engineering, Physics, or similar
• Strong analytical thinking and algorithmic understanding (beyond model training)
• Solid programming skills (Python required; C++/CUDA a plus depending on simulations)
• Interest in physics-based simulation, numerical methods, or computational engineering
• Motivation to pursue a PhD and work in an applied-research environment
• Very good communication skills in English

What we offer

• A Fraunhofer-university research environment with a clear PhD track and mentoring
• Access to real industrial problems, partners, and high-impact application settings
• A collaborative team spanning AI, optimization, and simulation expertise
• Professional development and opportunities for technology transfer
• 
  Interesting and multifaceted projects right at the interface between academic and industrial research
• Excellent hardware and software infrastructure
• 
  A highly enthusiastic international team
• Possibilities for personal development and qualification
• Possibility to become part of an international network of excellent researchers in Europe and beyond
• Family support and nice atmosphere within a unique environment containing a castle
• Various offerings of sports and healthcare activities

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. The position is limited to two years, with the possibility of extension.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 qualifications and suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Additionally Fraunhofer may grant performance-based variable remuneration components.

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.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

Questions according to this position are answered by:

Prof. Dr. Vahid Babaei

vahid.babaei@scai.fraunhofer.de

Please always submit your application online and not via email.

Fraunhofer Institute for Algorithms and Scientific Computing SCAI

www.scai.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 83001