The Institute of Materials Systems Modeling of the Helmholtz-Zentrum hereon is offering a 3-years PhD position in the area of computer simulations and machine learning. The focus of the PhD project will lie on developing novel machine learning architectures and modifying published machine learning algorithms to work with established methods from computational engineering and computer simulation such as the finite element method or discrete element method.

The objective is to extend the compatibility of cutting-edge machine learning methodology with problems from mechanical engineering and materials research that could not be addressed so far due to their high complexity, which prevents approaches that solely rely on classical mechanistic modeling.

Equality of opportunity is an important part of our personnel policy. We would therefore strongly encourage qualified women to apply for the position.

Your tasks

• development of novel machine learning architectures that can be combined with methods from computational engineering and computer simulation
• implementation of your machine learning architectures in Python (using Keras / TensorFlow / PyTorch)
• validation of your results in collaboration with colleagues from various application areas
• publication and presentation of your scientific results in international scientific journals and at international conferences and workshops

Your profile

• master’s degree in computational engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, applied mathematics, physics or similar area
• very good programming skills in Python
• proven experience in object-oriented code development (coding skills will be checked during the job interview!)
• preferably also background knowledge in computational mechanics and applied mathematics
• prior experience specifically with machine learning is an advantage but not strictly required
• very good English

We offer you

• multinational work environment with ca. 1,100 colleagues from more than 50 nations
• extensive options of vocational training (i. a. expert seminars, language courses or leadership seminars)
• flexible working hours and various models to ensure the compatibility of family and career
• excellent infrastructure, including a scientific in-house library as well as modern work spaces
• remuneration according to the standards of the collective wage agreement TV-AVH including further social benefits
• free employee advice – Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• childcare offers
• Welcome Office, guest accommodation
• canteen at the Geesthacht location