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Student (f/m/x) - Analysis and Development of Generic Reference Models for AFP Components
Job Description
Req ID:  6454
Place of work:  Stade
Starting date:  01.12.2026
Career level:  Internship, Student employment
Type of employment:  Full-time, Part time
Duration of contract:  3-6 months (depends on career level)

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!

Would you like to become part of our innovation-driven research team and help shape the future of lightweight system? We, the Institute of Lightweight Systems, develop and test new lightweight construction technologies for resource-saving and climate-friendly structures in the aerospace, transport, energy and security sectors. Our vision is intelligent lightweight system construction for an emission-free tomorrow.

 

What to expect

Automated Fiber Placement (AFP) is a key technology for the efficient manufacturing of complex composite structures in aerospace applications. Representative component models that capture the characteristic features of real aircraft structures are essential for investigating and evaluating different manufacturing concepts.
As part of your thesis, you will analyze typical aerospace composite components and develop generic reference models based on their characteristic features. These models will serve as a foundation for future investigations and comparative assessments of AFP manufacturing processes. You will gain insights into the structural design of composite components, automated fiber placement, and the development of representative component models for manufacturing process evaluation.

 

Your tasks

  • Research and analyze AFP-relevant composite components used in aircraft structures
  • Identify and systematically document characteristic structural and laminate features, such as fiber orientation distributions, laminate thicknesses, and the type, proportion, and distribution of local reinforcements (patches)
  • Derive representative component characteristics and define suitable generic reference structures
  • Develop and model the reference structures, including their laminate layups, using CAD/CPD software
  • Document the underlying assumptions, modeling approaches, and results

 

Your profile

  • Currently enrolled in a degree program in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field
  • Basic knowledge of composite materials, particularly laminate design and structural behavior
  • Initial experience with CAD modeling, ideally using CATIA CPD
  • Structured and independent approach to work
  • Analytical thinking skills
  • Very good written and spoken German and/or English skills

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 6454) please contact:

 

Dominik Delisle
Tel.: +49 531 295-3738

 
Apply now