Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V.; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 11,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!
Req ID: 3824
Place of work: Köln
Starting date: 01.02.2026
Career level: Student research project and final thesis
Type of employment: Part time
Duration of contract: ca. 10 Monate
Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector – Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)
The Institute for Frontier Materials on Earth and in Space offers a unique research environment. From analyses at the atomic level to parabolic flights and experiments on the ISS – our research environment is as diverse as it is fascinating. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues who would like to join us in researching and developing the materials and processes of the future.
What to expect
Ni-based superalloys are widely used in high-temperature sections of turbine engines due to their excellent mechanical strength and creep resistance at elevated temperatures. To further enhance their performance, these alloys are typically protected by NiCoCrAlY bond coats, which provide oxidation and corrosion resistance, and Thermal Barrier Coatings (TBCs), usually ceramic layers (e.g., yttria-stabilized zirconia), which reduce the operating temperature of the underlying metal and improve component lifetime.
Your tasks
The aim of this Master thesis is to develop a fundamental understanding of the oxidation mechanisms and kinetics of TBC systems, including NiCoCrAlY bond coats on Ni-based superalloys, in the presence of water vapour. Gaining this knowledge will support the assessment of long-term coating stability and contribute to the development of next-generation TBC technologies capable of meeting future combustion requirements.
Your profile
- bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
- fundamental knowledge of high-temperature materials, oxidation, and corrosion processes
- experience with laboratory work, for example in high-temperature experiments or materials testing
- strong analytical and data-processing skills
- attention to detail in documentation and reporting
- motivated to work independently as well as collaboratively in a research team
- good command of German and English, both written and spoken
We offer
DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.
We look forward to getting to know you!
If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 3824) please contact:
Nadine Laska
Tel.: +49 2203 601 3942
and Mr Ravisankar Naraparaju, Tel. 02203-601 34 42
