🚀 PhD Position ‒ Engineer Adaptive Rotor Blade Structural Analysis and Lifetime Prediction

PhD Position ‒ Engineer Adaptive Rotor Blade Structural Analysis and Lifetime Prediction

Fraunhofer Institute for Wind Energy Systems IWES seeks a PhD candidate to develop prognostics models for rotor blade lifetime prediction to support the design and operation of offshore wind turbines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct novel prognostics research based on sensor data evaluation and digital twin development for rotor blades.
• Run experimental modal analyses and structural simulations to validate and improve structural models.
• Publish research findings in international journals and present at conferences.
• Participate in the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska‑Curie “IntelliWind” network, including 6‑month stays at Universidad de Castilla‑La Mancha and Delft University of Technology.

Qualifications

• Master’s or equivalent degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Strong background in mechanics, composites, and numerical simulation.
• Experience with modal analysis, data evaluation, and data analytics.
• Programming skills in Python and eagerness to pursue post‑graduate training.
• Excellent command of English; international collaboration experience is advantageous.

Benefits and Contract

Three‑year PhD research contract, 39‑hour work week, €39,500 annual research fellowship under the Marie Curie scheme. Training schools and regular network meetings across Europe.

Application Deadline

10/26/2025 – only online applications via the Fraunhofer portal are considered.

Legal and Diversity Statement

Fraunhofer welcomes diverse applicants regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and identity. Disabled persons are given preference in recruiting. We process applications in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation.