PhD student (m/f/d) in the field of mathematics, scientific computing, physics or an engineering discipline with a proven strong focus on numerical methods

The Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) is a materials research organization in Germany. Our mission is to ensure safety in technology and chemistry. We perform research and testing in materials science, materials engineering and chemistry to improve the safety of products and processes. At BAM we do research that matters. Our work covers a broad array of topics in the focus areas of energy, infrastructure, environment, materials, and chemistry and process engineering.

We are looking for talented people to join us.

Your responsibilities include

• Doctorate as part of a DFG collaborative project aimed at assessing the reliability of non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring methods
• The objective is to develop and validate a hybrid approach combining simulation and experiment to analyse the reliability (probability of detection) of non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring methods using ultrasound
• The core of the PhD project is the development of simulation methods – primarily based on the Scaled Boundary Finite Element Method (SBFEM) – for modelling the propagation of guided ultrasonic waves in pipelines
• The task includes the refinement of existing SBFEM implementations and their extension to coupled field problems (multiphysics simulation)
• Collaboration within an interdisciplinary research team with external and internal partners

Your qualifications

• A successfully completed academic degree (Master’s or Diplom) in the field of mathematics, applied mathematics, scientific computing, physics or an engineering discipline with a proven strong focus on numerical methods
• Proven expertise in the development of numerical methods for modelling wave propagation and structural dynamics (e.g. FEM, semi-analytical methods)
• Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable: wave propagation in solids, guided ultrasonic waves, acoustics, non-destructive testing
• Preliminary knowledge of SBFEM or related methods is an advantage
• Good programming skills in at least one scientific programming language (e.g. Python, Matlab, C++) are essential; experience with version control (Git) is desirable
• Willingness to supervise students (Bachelor’s and Master’s theses)
• Strong initiative and a passion for developing innovative solutions at the interface between numerical methods and experimental work
• Good communication and information behaviour, goal-oriented and structured way of working, initiative/commitment and ability to make decisions, ability to work in a team and willingness to cooperate, willingness to learn

Our Benefits

• Attractive and modern working environment with excellent infrastructure and state-of-the-art scientific equipment (laboratories, BAM Data Store, high-performance computing, etc.).
• Fair pay in accordance with union agreements
• Work in national and international networks with universities, research institutions, and industrial companies
• Comprehensive and interdisciplinary training and further education opportunities
• 30 vacation days with a 5-day week

We offer:

• Professional and interdisciplinary support from the BAM Graduate Academy, including skills development and networking formats.
• Access to high-quality continuing education opportunities and training on digitalization topics such as programming, research data management, AI applications, and machine computing in science.
• Networking and exchange in interdisciplinary digitalization communities and at BAM digitalization events with the aim of developing innovative solutions with experts.

Your application

We welcome applications via the online application form by 23.08.2026. Alternatively, you can also send your application by post, quoting the Job-ID to:

Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung
Referat Z.3 - Personal
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
GERMANY
www.bam.de

BAM promotes professional equality between women and men. We therefore particularly welcome applications from women. At the same time, we strive to reflect social diversity. Every application is therefore welcome, regardless of gender, cultural or social background, religion, ideology or sexual identity.

In addition, BAM has set itself the goal of promoting the professional participation of people with severe disabilities. The fulfillment of the job requirements is considered on an individual basis. Severely disabled persons or persons of equal status will be given preferential consideration if they are equally qualified.

The advertised position requires a low level of physical aptitude.

Contact

Dr. Jens Prager
Fachbereich 8.4
Unter den Eichen 87
12205 Berlin
030/8104-3873
Jens.Prager@bam.de