In cooperation with the Chair of Optical Systems Technology (TOS), 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: Cross-domain generalization of AI models in laser-based manufacturing processes.

Industrial manufacturing processes such as laser brazing rely heavily on expert knowledge. Setting optimal process parameters requires extensive experience, as there are complex interactions between parameters and results (e.g., seam geometry), particularly when component variations occur during the process. AI-based process models enable the mapping of these complex relationships while maintaining high inference speeds; however, their transferability to other systems and materials is often limited.

Be part of change

• As part of your master's thesis, you will analyze the transferability of existing AI-based process models to different plants and various materials
• Your goal is to identify the factors that limit the models’ generalizability
• To this end, you will investigate transfer learning approaches to reduce the required training effort and adapt existing models to new domains
• You will then evaluate the potential for scalable industrial applications and reduced dependence on extensive new datasets

What you contribute

• You are studying industrial engineering, physics, mechanical engineering, computational engineering science, or a similar engineering or science program
• Experience in programming with Python and a basic understanding of data science and signal processing are a plus, but not required

What we offer

Team spirit: Creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and an informal culture.
Workplace: Excellent range of machines and equipment, as well as first-class office facilities.
Involvement: Practice-oriented thesis in an innovative applied research environment.
Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.
Getting there: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an e-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:

Julius Neuß M. Sc.
Telephone: +49 241/8906-8049

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

Requisition Number: 84435 Application Deadline: 07/31/2026