Scientific and Technical Assistance position available at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Halle (Saale)

Keywords: Solid State Research & Material Sciences, Chemistry, Physics
Application Code No.: II-01-2014 

Young Researchers and Postdoctoral Scientist Positions available as of August 10, 2014.

The newly formed Department of Nano Systems at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics in Halle, Germany directed by Prof. Dr. Stuart S.P. Parkin has an opening for a Mechanical Engineer.

The candidate will be responsible for the detailed design of unique and complex electro-mechanical devices and systems in support of research projects in the area of atomically engineered thin films.  Projects will vary in scope and duration, and will include precision mechanism design for sample manipulation, design of new equipment for automation, vacuum chamber and vacuum system design, failure analysis, development of solutions to mechanical problems related to extreme environments, and integration of new instrumentation.  Responsibilities will include concept development, analysis using available FEA tools where appropriate, detailed design and documentation, testing, and interfacing with other engineers, research scientists and technicians to ensure that designs meet requirements and are properly installed and tested.

Your profile

A B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, a Dipl. Ing. or a similar degree is required for this position along with some machine design experience in either industry or as part of school projects.  Design experience must include the use of CAD, preferably Solid Works or Inventor, and FEA and must include detailed documentation.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate fundamental mechanical engineering skills, creative problem solving, effective communication skills, organizational skills, and ability to work as a team member.  Additional experience that includes UHV system design, selection of bearings, motors and sensors, thermal and vibration analysis using FEA, or high performance materials is highly desirable.  The candidates must have a strong drive to excel in an interdisciplinary and international environment and are expected to be highly creative and innovative.

Terms of employment

Salaries will be based on previous experience according to TVöD guidelines. This is a full-time position but applicants asking for part time will also be considered. An initial contract will be offered for 1 year. Contract prolongation and/or permanent position are conceivable after the initial period.

Applications should be sent as a single pdf file by email to office.parkin@mpi-halle.mpg.de.  Applications should include a full CV, statements of past engineering projects and the contact details of two referees.  Further details are available at the Institute’s website (http://www.mpi-halle.de/mpi/mpi_f_job.html).  For informal queries, please contact via email Prof. Dr. Stuart Parkin (office.parkin@mpi-halle.mpg.de).

The Max Planck Society has set itself the objective of employing more persons with disabilities.  Applications from persons with disabilities are expressly encouraged.  Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.