Research Assistant (m/f/d)

Division 5.5 - Materials Modelling

To strengthen our team in the division 5.5 “Materials Modelling” in Berlin-Steglitz, starting 01.05.2026, we are looking for a

Research Assistant (m/f/d) for investigation and analysis of the high-temperature fatigue damage of cast iron

Salary group 13TVöD
Temporary contract until 31.01.2028
Full-time / suitable as part-time employment

The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is a materials research organization in Germany. Our mission is to ensure safety in technology and chemistry. We perform research and testing in materials science, materials engineering and chemistry to improve the safety of products and processes. At BAM we do research that matters. Our work covers a broad array of topics in the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials, and chemistry and process engineering.

We are looking for talented people to join us.

Your responsibilities include:

<span data-converted-div="1">Collaboration on a research project to predict the temporal crack propagation in components made of cast iron alloy under thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) using the finite element method (FEM). One part of the project involves combining experimental investigations and FE simulations of damage behaviour at the macroscopic and microscopic levels. The project is being carried out in collaboration with the Institute of Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg. Your specific tasks will include:
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• Conducting cyclic crack propagation and deformation tests at high temperatures on a heat-resistant cast iron material
• Mathematical evaluation of the tests and implementation and identification of a combined deformation and damage model for high-temperature fatigue
• Performing FE simulations of damage development at the microstructure and component levels
• Exchanging information and presenting the results with and to the project partners
• Publishing the results in peer-reviewed journals

Your qualifications:

• Completed academic university degree (Diplom or Master) with above‑average grades in Physical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Physics, or a closely related field
• Doctoral degree (PhD) is considered an advantage
  Excellent knowledge of finite element methods, material mechanics, and numerical methods for engineers
• Good knowledge of experimental techniques and control engineering
• Strong programming skills, particularly in Python and Fortran 90
• Knowledge of fracture mechanics is an asset
• Excellent command of both English and German
• Good communication and information behaviour, goal-oriented and structured way of working
• initiative/commitment and ability to make decisions, ability to work in a team and willingness to cooperate, willingness to learn

We offer:

• Work in national and international networks with universities, research institutions and industrial companies
• Attractive and modern working environment with excellent infrastructure and state-of-the-art scientific equipment (laboratories, etc.)
• Opportunities for internal, interdisciplinary networking and participation in team events
• Scope for research and development for your own innovative ideas
• An open welcoming culture, a certified family-friendly working environment, regular feedback meetings and competent contact persons, sustainability [including a subsidy for a job ticket]

Your application:

We welcome applications via the online application form by 02.03.2026. Alternatively, you can also send your application by post, quoting the reference number 23/26-5.5 to:

Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung
Referat Z.3 - Personal
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
GERMANY
www.bam.de

Mr Dr.-Ing. Bernard Fedelich or Prof. Darvishi Kamachali will be glad to answer any specific questions you may have. Please get in touch via the telephone number +49 30 8104-3104 and/or by email to Bernard.Fedelich@bam.de, respectively via the telephone number +49 30 8104-3107 and/or by email to Reza.Kamachali@bam.de.

BAM promotes professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women. At the same time, we strive to reflect social diversity. Every application is therefore welcome, regardless of gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity.

In addition, BAM has set itself the goal of promoting the professional participation of people with severe disabilities. The fulfillment of the job requirements is considered on an individual basis. Severely disabled persons or persons of equal status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

The advertised position requires a high level of physical aptitude.