Volkswagen Group PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing 2026

In the Additive Manufacturing (Metal LPBF) department, you will play an active role in shaping the future of metal-based manufacturing. Volkswagen Group develop advanced approaches to process simulation, design, structuring, and optimization of additive manufacturing processes, thereby driving the digital transformation of our process chains. Additive manufacturing opens up new opportunities for developing highly complex, functionally integrated components. At the same time, the demands placed on design, simulation, and optimization are increasing. Modern multi-objective optimization methods offer considerable potential for developing innovative solutions for vehicle components and production equipment. As part of this doctoral research project, you will research and develop novel multi-objective optimization methods to make optimal use of the design freedom offered by additive manufacturing processes. The aim is to create multidisciplinary, functionally integrated components while taking technical and manufacturing constraints into account. The use of additive manufacturing is intended to create innovative product and process solutions. The research is expected to help reduce development times and cycle times while increasing the efficiency of production equipment. At the same time, proprietary CAx methods can create sustainable competitive advantages. Join the team and work with them to shape the next stage in the development of additive manufacturing. We look forward to receiving your application!

Possible Tasks within this Role

• Analyzing the potential and limitations of existing optimization tools and methods, including GI-MDTO, COMSOL Multiphysics, and Synera
• Developing new design methodology approaches for interdisciplinary functional integration
• Advancing simulation-based methods for multi-objective optimization
• Integrating optimization, simulation, and manufacturing requirements into a holistic methodology
• Validating the developed approaches through practical applications using software tools such as LEOPARD and selected additive manufacturing processes

The final doctoral topic is defined together with the professor. The prerequisite for the cooperation is the confirmation of supervision as well as a confirmed delimitation of topics by the professor of a university or research institution entitled to confer a doctorate.

• Table of Content
• About Volkswagen
• PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship
• Aim and Benefits of PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship
• Requirements for PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship

Aim and Benefits of PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship

• Attractive salary & 30 vacation days (+ 24.12. and 31.12. off)
• 35-hour week, flexible working hours, remote work
• Special conditions for the purchase and leasing of vehicles
• Free seminars on scientific work and interdisciplinary qualifications
• Participation in the doctoral network for scientific exchange with science representatives and other doctoral candidates within the Volkswagen Group

The gross monthly salary for this position, based on a 35-hour workweek and scaled according to the respective year of employment, is €3,030 (1st year), €3,194 (2nd year), and €3,497 (3rd year). In addition, there is a monthly allowance of €167 as well as a 49% share of the variable bonus.

Requirements for PhD Student Multi-Objective Optimization Additive Manufacturing (f/m/d) PhD Studentship Qualification

• Good to very good university degree qualifying for doctoral studies in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, production engineering, computational engineering, mechatronics, or a comparable field
• Knowledge of design, simulation, optimization, or additive manufacturing
• Interest in scientific research and complex technical challenges
• Ideally, experience with CAE methods, numerical simulation, or optimization software
• Excellent analytical skills and an independent, structured approach to work
• German or English language level B1

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more information, kindly visit Volkswagen Group webpage.