Thesis: Form Generation in Laser-Based Optics Manufacturing

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: Shaping in laser-based optical manufacturing—factors influencing reproducibility and dimensional accuracy.

Modern laser processes such as Selective Laser-induced Etching (SLE) enable the production of highly precise 3D glass components with feature sizes below 1 µm for key industries such as semiconductors, medical technology, quantum technology, and optics. The newly available SLE lathe enables UKP laser modification of rotationally symmetric components and increases process speed by a factor of 50. However, the increased speed is accompanied by altered process windows and radius-dependent features. Reconciling these with the requirements for surface quality and shape accuracy is the challenge of current research.

 

Be part of change

• You will acquire comprehensive knowledge of processing transparent materials using UKP laser radiation
• You will independently plan and conduct experiments on the SLE lathe
• You will measure the fabricated samples, analyze, and evaluate the obtained results

 

What you contribute

• You’re studying physics, mechanical engineering, material science, chemistry, or a comparable field
• Interest in laser material processing in application-oriented research
• Independent, organized, and structured way of working
• Prior experience in laser technology, UKP laser processing, or design is beneficial, 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:

Lara Christina Ive Beckmann M. Sc.          Sandra Borzek M. Sc.
Phone: +49 241/8906-410                          Phone: +49 241/8906-459

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT 

​" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.ilt.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 84256                Application Deadline: 06/30/2026

 

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