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Master Thesis (f/m/x): High-Temperature Oxidation of Environmental Barrier Coatings
Job Description
Req ID:  3822
Place of work:  Köln
Starting date:  01.02.2026
Career level:  Student research project and final thesis
Type of employment:  Part time
Duration of contract:  ca. 10 Monate

Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector - Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)

Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V.; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 11,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!

The Institute for Frontier Materials on Earth and in Space offers a unique research environment. From analyses at the atomic level to parabolic flights and experiments on the ISS - our research environment is as diverse as it is fascinating. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues who would like to join us in researching and developing the materials and processes of the future.

 

What to expect

SiC–SiC ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are emerging as promising alternatives to Ni-based superalloys for high-temperature sections in aero-engines due to their high strength and low density. A major challenge for their implementation is ensuring long-term resistance to water-vapour-induced oxidation. To protect the composites, Environmental Barrier Coating (EBC) systems—typically consisting of a Si bond coat and rare-earth-silicate top coats—are applied. These coatings are critical to extending component lifetime under harsh operating conditions.

 

Your tasks

The aim of this Master thesis is to develop a fundamental understanding of the oxidation mechanisms, kinetics, and phase stability of EBC systems on SiC–SiC CMCs in water-vapour-rich environments. Experimental studies will include furnace cyclic oxidation, thermal-gradient cyclic oxidation, and isothermal high-velocity steam exposure to evaluate coating integrity and long-term stability. Insights from this work will support the optimization and development of next-generation EBC systems.

 

Your profile

  • bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related fields
  • knowledge of high-temperature materials and oxidation mechanisms
  • experience in laboratory work, for example in materials testing or high-temperature experiments
  • strong analytical skills
  • experience in careful documentation and reporting
  • ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research team
  • good German and English skills (written and spoken)

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.

We look forward to getting to know you!

 

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 3822) please contact:

 

Nadine Laska 
Tel.: +49 2203 601 3942 

and Mr Ravisankar Naraparaju, Tel. 02203-601 34 42
Apply now