Ph.D. Position (f/m/div) in Computational Mechanics and Intelligent Structures

 

The Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) conducts research to advance intelligent systems that perceive, learn, and interact. Through fundamental research across computational, physical, and social dimensions, they shape artificial intelligence and robotics to advance knowledge and benefit society.

 

They are offering a

Ph.D. Position (f/m/div) in Computational Mechanics and Intelligent Structures

The Mechanics for Intelligent Structures research group, led by Dr. Renate Sachse at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS), is seeking a doctoral researcher to join a newly founded group working on the nonlinear and computational mechanics of active structures.

 

About the project

The project focuses on understanding and engineering intelligent structural behavior through mechanics-based modeling and computation. Rather than treating structures as purely passive load-bearing components, the research develops frameworks in which geometry, material behavior, and actuation are tightly coupled to enable adaptive and programmable functionality. Applications range from soft robotics and smart materials to bio-inspired systems.

The work combines nonlinear continuum mechanics, advanced finite element formulations, and inverse and optimization-based methods to study large deformations, instabilities, and multistable responses in thin-walled and compliant structures. The goal is to translate physical insight into robust computational tools for the analysis, simulation, and design of active structures.

Specific research directions and activities may include:

• Development of mechanics-based models for active, adaptive, and multistable structures
• Formulation and implementation of advanced finite element and numerical methods for nonlinear structural behavior
• Inverse, optimization-based, and design-oriented approaches to tailor geometry, material response, and actuation strategies
• Computational studies of soft robotic and bio-inspired structural systems
• Validation of computational models through experimental data

The details of the research project and its specific milestones will be determined jointly with the candidate and will depend on the expertise and interests of the candidate.

 

Roles and responsibilities

In addition to working on a research project with the theoretical and computational content described above, the doctoral researcher will be an active member of the Mechanics for Intelligent Structures research group and the wider MPI-IS scientific community.

In particular, the PhD candidate will:

• Plan and carry out independent research under close supervision, while progressively developing scientific independence
• Implementation of models and methods in collaborative multiphysics research software based on C++ and Python
• Contribute to the dissemination of research results through peer-reviewed journal publications and conference presentations
• Actively participate in the scientific life of the research group and contribute to shaping a newly established research environment
• Collaborate with researchers across different groups and departments at MPI-IS and with external partners

The doctoral researcher will apply to and, upon acceptance, be part of the International Max Planck Research School for Intelligent Systems (IMPRS-IS) and is expected to engage in its training and community activities.

 

Education and experience

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a closely related field
• Solid knowledge of continuum and nonlinear structural mechanics
• Experience with numerical methods, in particular finite element methods
• Strong programming skills, ideally including Python and/or MATLAB; experience with C++ is highly desirable
• Very good oral and written communication skills in English
• Interest in or experience with experimental validation and interdisciplinary collaboration

 

The offer

• A fully funded PhD position (initially for three years, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and scientific progress)
• Close mentoring and supervision within a newly established research group
• An open-minded and motivating working environment with international scientists, engineers and administrative staff
• Opportunities for collaboration with leading research groups at MPI-IS and internationally
• Access to state-of-the-art computational resources and experimental infrastructure at MPI-IS
• Financial contribution to the Deutschland-Jobticket (ÖPNV)
• Family-friendly working conditions and support for reconciling family and career
• Earliest start date is July 1, 2026

 

Application

Applications should include the following documents (in English):

• Cover letter (maximum two pages), describing the applicant’s academic background and research interests, as well as their academic and personal motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Curriculum vitae, including a summary of education, research experience, relevant skills, and (if applicable) publications or software contributions
• Transcript(s) of records from current and previous degree programs
• Names and contact information of references (letters are not required at this stage)

Application without these documents including the letter will not be considered.

Please send the requested documents in a single PDF file, via the application portal. The posting is open until filled.

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Renate Sachse at sachse@is.mpg.de. The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.