Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM
Scientists
Pursuing a Ph.D. at Fraunhofer IWM
At Fraunhofer IWM, you have the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. through close collaborations with universities. Your Ph.D. is a key qualification that prepares you for a career in academia, research, or leadership roles in industry and spin-offs.
We support you throughout this process with clear guidelines: A doctorate qualification agreement defines the goals and content of your doctoral project in collaboration with the institute — based on the Fraunhofer Code of Conduct for doctoral projects.
Your doctoral program typically lasts three to four years. During this time, you will be employed part-time (80%, 31.2 hours/week) and work closely with our experts. This allows you to benefit from scientific supervision, state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure, and practice-oriented research projects.
Your benefits with us:
- Close supervision by experienced scientists
- Practice-oriented research and direct involvement in projects
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, workshops, and materials
- Preparation for a scientific career or a career in industry, business, or startups
- Networking within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and with international partners
Fraunhofer TALENTA career program for female scientists
Fraunhofer is committed to attracting, promoting, and retaining more women in applied research over the long term. With our tailored career and development program Fraunhofer TALENTA, we support female scientists at all career stages—whether they are just starting their research careers, building up responsibility, or seeking to advance into leadership roles.
The program offers targeted training opportunities and, through “career time,” creates the space to deepen technical and leadership skills. The focus is on STEM and engineering disciplines. Apply directly to a Fraunhofer institute and mention TALENTA if you’re interested.
Your benefits at a glance:
- Individual career planning and targeted support
- Development of leadership and project management skills
- Networking with female experts from academia and industry
- Access to workshops, training, and mentoring opportunities
- Freedom for targeted professional development through “career time”
TALENTA start
With TALENTA start, female college graduates receive guidance for a successful entry into applied research. You not only strengthen your technical skills but also further develop your soft skills. We support you as you start your career, create opportunities for your doctoral studies, and guide your professional development.
The support program covers topics such as self-assessment, strategic self-management, and professional networking via the TALENTA.net platform.
TALENTA speed up
TALENTA speed up is designed for women with professional experience who are aiming for a management position or a specialist career. Through targeted training and mentoring opportunities, we support you in taking your career to the next level.
You’ll receive the necessary career time to build your own research group, along with valuable insights in the areas of leadership, strategy, and research funding.
TALENTA excellence
TALENTA excellence is aimed at women who aspire to or already hold a senior management position at Fraunhofer. The goal is to advance your professional and personal development through dedicated research time and to further distinguish your role as a scientist and manager.
The program offers advanced mentoring and professional development opportunities that specifically support you on your path to becoming a top manager.