Master Thesis: Process Chain Development for the Laser-Based Fabrication of Micro-Optics

Master Thesis: Process Chain Development for the Laser-Based Fabrication of Micro-Optics

City: Aachen
Date: Sep 21, 2026

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 74 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 30 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

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 thesis on the topic: »Process Chain Development for the Laser-Based Fabrication of Micro-Optics«.

Conventional optical manufacturing involves significant time and cost for form generation and polishing. To meet the demand for affordable, customizable components new manufacturing technologies are required. One approach for manufacturing micro-optics is the combination of selective laser etching (SLE) and laser polishing. This enables the production of optical components with a high degree of geometric freedom. However, there is currently a lack of understanding regarding the interaction between the two processes and a lack of a robust procedure for ensuring optical quality.

Be part of change

• To reduce geometric errors (such as geometric deviation), you will develop a process strategy
• To this end, you will independently design and conduct experiments on the laser systems
• You will investigate the interaction between SLE geometry and laser polishing and evaluate the shape accuracy and surface quality
• In addition, you will fabricate demonstrator optics with commercial-grade quality
• You will carefully document the results and discuss them

What you contribute

• You are studying physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field
• You are interested in laser material processing in application-oriented research
• You work independently, in an organized and structured manner
• Prior experience in the field of laser technology is a plus, 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.

Contact

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:
Dr.-Ing. Manuel Jung
Phone: +49 241 8906-669
Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT
www.ilt.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 85720
Application Deadline: 11/30/2026