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Undergraduate and Final-Year Thesis (m/f/d) Design and Validation of a Robotic Finger
Job Description
Req ID:  5847
Place of work:  Oberpfaffenhofen
Starting date:  01.09.2026
Career level:  Student research project and final thesis
Type of employment:  Part time
Duration of contract:  8 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 12,000 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 of Robotics and Mechatronics develops robots that enable people to interact with the environment more efficiently, effectively and safely. The robots are designed to work in environments that are inaccessible or dangerous for humans, but also to support and relieve people at work and in everyday life.

 

 

What to expect

Robotics in the field of humanoid service robots aims to automate dangerous tasks. Various bipedal systems are being developed at the German Aerospace Centre that are intended to approximate their biological counterparts in terms of performance. Integrated legs, arms, hands and upper body are being developed to realise these highly developed systems. The development process includes the design, assembly, commissioning and comprehensive testing of the systems.

 

Your tasks

  • analysis of existing actuation solutions and their geometric and functional adaptation for a new finger design
  • development of a CAD model for a robotic finger combining rigid and flexible elements
  • development of methods for integrating proprioceptive sensors directly into the finger structure 
  • construction of functional prototypes using additive manufacturing processes to validate the design
  • planning and conducting test series to measure precision, robustness and sensor feedback

 

Your profil

  • very good CAD skills in Creo or comparable design software
  • A sound understanding of engineering mechanics for the design of moving components
  • Proficiency in using MATLAB or Simulink to analyse sensor data and system behaviour
  • Practical knowledge of modern manufacturing technology and the mechanical integration of electronics
  • Experience of working with mechatronic test benches and their commissioning

 

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 5847) please contact:

 

Dr. Markus Grebenstein 
Tel.: +49 8153 28 1064