What could enable next-generation neural interfaces that are soft, flexible, and biocompatible? A collaborative team at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems develops innovative soft nanocomposite materials for neural stimulation systems. This interdepartmental project brings together expertise from the Robotic Materials, Physical Intelligence, and Medical Systems departments.

We are looking for a:

Student Assistant (HiWi) f/m/div

Starting as soon as possible

Roles & Responsibilities

The position will allow you to gain hands-on experience with functional materials processing and characterization, as well as exposure to cutting-edge interdisciplinary research at the interface of materials science and neurotechnology. The selected candidate can start working immediately after being hired.

Possible tasks include:

• Mixing and dispersing nanoparticles into polymer solutions
• Fabricating thin nanocomposite films using controlled deposition techniques
• Preparing samples for materials characterization
• Performing electrical, magnetic, and morphological characterization of composite films
• Assisting with systematic testing and data analysis
• Supporting documentation and experimental record-keeping

Education & Experience

Applicants should

• Be pursuing a Bachelor’s (advanced) or Master’s degree (preferred) in in materials science, chemistry, biomedical engineering, physics, or related fields to support our research on soft nanocomposite materials for neural interfaces.
• Be currently enrolled in a German university
• Have high motivation and attention to detail
• Have strong academic performance in relevant bachelor’s and master’s courses
• Want to work in an international and interdisciplinary research group
• Have good oral and written communication skills in English
• Be able to work on site at the Max-Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems in Stuttgart, Germany, at least for a part-time employment

We are especially interested in applicants who have:

• Experience with materials science laboratory skills
• Interest and/or experience in:
• Polymer processing and composite materials
• Thin film fabrication techniques
• Nanomaterial handling and dispersion
• Materials characterization (electrical, magnetic, or microscopy)
• Biomedical materials or neural interfaces (advantageous but not required)

Our offer

• Students without a Bachelor’s degree will be paid 13,90 € per hour. Students with a Bachelor’s degree will be paid 14,40 € per hour.
• Working up to 20 hours per week.
• Project duration of up to 10-12 months. Contracts are given per semester.

Application

Please upload your application files including:

• a CV / resumé in English
• a cover letter in English

via our .

For any questions please contact Daniela Macari (), Asli Aydin (), or Mertcan Han ().

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

Closing date for applications

February 10th 2026