PhD Position | Embodied Intelligence through Material, Mechanics and Computation

• Develop computational and inverse-design methods from structural mechanics to model and predict the behavior of stimuli-responsive materials, linking material properties, geometry, and environmental inputs to targeted deformation and functional response
• Design and fabricate soft robotic systems using additive manufacturing and multi-material design strategies, focusing on how structural geometry and material composition can be engineered to produce targeted, programmable deformation and actuation behavior
• Develop and implement finite element–based and reduced-order models to capture nonlinear deformation, coupled multiphysics behavior, and material–structure interaction in soft robotic systems
• Investigate and implement stimuli-responsive and adaptive materials (e.g. polymers and material gradients), exploring how their intrinsic physical properties can be leveraged to enable sensing, feedback, and actuation directly within the material system

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, materials science, or a closely related field
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills
• Prior research experience demonstrated through a Master's thesis, research project, or equivalent academic work
• Experience with academic writing and/or research dissemination (e.g. thesis, reports, publications, or equivalent outputs)
• Strong motivation to engage in interdisciplinary research at the interface of materials, mechanics, fabrication, robotics, and computational design
• Willingness to develop new experimental, computational, and fabrication skills throughout the course of the PhD
• Interest in collaborative, research-driven environments and experimental design methodologies
• Background or strong interest in mechanics, simulation, and additive manufacturing is highly desirable, but not a must

Background or strong interest in mechanics, simulation, and additive manufacturing

• International, multidisciplinary, and highly motivating working environment
• Extensive mentoring, supervision, and career-planning support from two PIs
• Access to state-of-the-art lab facilities, including advanced fabrication and testing equipment
• Collaborations with world-leading research groups at MPI-IS and beyond
• Networking opportunities through conferences, seminars, and research visits
• Competitive salaries and fully funded positions
• Financial contribution to the job ticket (ÖPNV)