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, we shape artificial intelligence and robotics to advance knowledge and benefit society.

We are looking for a

Student Project / Master’s Thesis (f/m/div) – Topology Optimization of Shell Structures for Compliant Mechanisms

The Mechanics for Intelligent Structures research group, led by Dr. Renate Sachse at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS), is looking for a motivated student to work on topology optimization of thin-walled structures for the design of compliant mechanisms. The project combines computational mechanics, nonlinear finite element analysis, and numerical optimization, with the goal of developing computational methods that identify how structural properties should be spatially distributed to achieve a desired deformation behavior.

Roles & Responsibilities

Topology optimization enables the systematic design of structures by identifying material layouts and structural configurations that achieve a desired mechanical behavior. Combined with computational mechanics, it provides powerful tools for the design of lightweight, adaptive, and compliant structures.

In this project, the student will investigate topology optimization methods for shell structures, with a particular focus on compliant mechanisms. The project will involve the development and implementation of numerical optimization methods and their integration with finite element simulations. Depending on the specific research direction, different topology optimization approaches, such as level-set or phase-field methods, may be investigated.

Typical tasks include:

• reviewing existing approaches for topology optimization of compliant structures,
• developing a topology optimization framework for shell structures,
• implementing suitable topology representations, such as level-set or phase-field methods,
• coupling the optimization framework with finite element simulations,
• formulating suitable objective functions and constraints for the design of compliant structures,
• testing and validating the developed methods on numerical examples,
• analyzing the influence of different optimization formulations and design parameters on the resulting structural designs.

The exact scope of the project will be adapted to the student’s background and interests.

Education & Experience

Applicants should

• be enrolled in a Master’s program in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, computational engineering, applied mathematics, physics, or a related field,
• have a solid background or strong interest in computational mechanics, numerical methods, and optimization,
• have programming experience,
• be able to work independently and reliably,
• have good oral and written communication skills in English.

Our offer

• A well-defined research project at the interface of computational mechanics and structural optimization
• Hands-on experience in topology optimization and nonlinear finite element analysis
• The opportunity to contribute to research software developed and used within the group
• Close interaction with PhD students and the group leader
• Access to the research environment and computational resources of the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems
• The possibility of an accompanying paid student assistant (HiWi) position. Students holding a Bachelor’s degree are currently paid €15.61 per hour. Contracts are typically issued per semester.

The project can be carried out as a Master’s thesis or another student research project. A combination with a student assistant position may be possible depending on the project setup and applicable employment regulations.

Application

Applications should include the following documents (in English):

• Cover letter (maximum two pages), describing the applicant’s academic background and interests, as well as their motivation for the project and relevant experience in computational mechanics, machine learning, and/or software development.
• Curriculum vitae, including a summary of education, research experience, relevant skills, and (if applicable) publications and software contributions
• Transcript(s) of records from current and previous degree programs

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

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

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Renate Sachse at .

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.

Closing date for applications

The posting is open until filled.