Master's Thesis on Laser Structuring of Battery Materials in Aachen, Deutschland

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology (LLT), the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT)—Europe’s leading center for contract research and development in the field of laser technology—is offering the opportunity to write a master’s thesis on the topic: »Diagnostics of Ablation Products in Ultrashort-Pulsed Laser Structuring of Battery Materials«.

Laser material processing using ultrashort-pulsed (USP) laser sources offers great potential for the targeted structuring of battery materials. This structuring can improve the performance and fast-charging capabilities of future battery cells. However, during the structuring process, ablation products are generated that spread within the process zone, influence the incident laser beam, and can be redeposited on the workpiece. The targeted removal of these ablation products requires knowledge of their key properties, such as particle size and their temporal and spatial distribution. To this end, suitable measurement principles will be selected, implemented in an experimental measurement setup, and tested using selected battery materials.

Be part of change

• You will investigate suitable measurement principles for detecting the particles and ablation products generated during USP laser structuring
• Your goal is to identify and record key characteristics of the particle clouds (e.g., size distribution, residence time) with a view to targeted removal
• To this end, you will set up a suitable measurement setup and integrate it into an existing laser system
• You will then conduct experimental investigations on two battery materials
• Finally, you will evaluate the measured data and draw conclusions about the resulting particle clouds and their process-dependent properties

What you contribute

• You are studying mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
• You have an interest in laser material processing, optical metrology, fluid mechanics, or experimental research
• Some experience in laser technology, optical diagnostic methods, or image and measurement data processing is a plus, but not required

What we offer

Team Spirit: A creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and a casual, informal atmosphere.

Workplace: Excellent machinery and equipment, as well as first-class office facilities.

Active involvement: A practice-oriented thesis project in an innovative applied research environment.

Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.

Commute: Good public transportation access, parking spaces right in front of the institute, an electric vehicle charging station, and a parking garage.

The position is limited in duration until completion of the thesis. 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 suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

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.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:

Tim Rörig, M. Sc.
Phone: +49 241 8906-498

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

Requisition Number: 85261Application Deadline: 11/30/2026