Experimental Investigation of the Scalability of Laser Polishing for Fusion Applications

In cooperation with the Chair of Laser Technology (LLT), the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT)—Europe’s leading center for contract research and development in the field of laser technology—is offering the opportunity to write a thesis on the topic: »Experimental Investigation of the Scalability of Laser Polishing Towards Large Optics for Fusion Applications«.

In laser polishing of glass, surface smoothing is achieved by remelting the surface at temperatures of up to 2100 °C. This enables contactless polishing with very high area throughput and extremely low surface roughness. Current processing concepts limit laser polishing to lens sizes of < 50 mm. Larger areas can be polished by stitching adjacent processing fields; however, this currently causes defects in the transition regions, which are not acceptable for high‑power optics.

Be part of change

• In this thesis, you will systematically investigate processing strategies for transferring the laser polishing process to large optics (Ø 150 mm)

• To achieve this, you will independently plan experiments and carry them out on the laser system

• You will evaluate the experimental results using the available precision measurement equipment

• And you will document and discuss the results

What you contribute

• You are studying physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, or a related field

• You are interested in laser material processing in application-oriented research

• You work independently, are organized, and have a structured approach

• Prior experience in the field of laser technology is a plus, but not required

What we offer

• ? Team spirit: Creative, interdisciplinary environment with a motivated team, flat hierarchies, and an informal culture.

• ? Workplace: Excellent range of machines and equipment, as well as first-class office facilities.

• ? Involvement: Practice-oriented thesis in an innovative applied research environment.

• ? Work-life balance: Benefit from flexible working hours based on trust.

• ? Getting there: Good transport connections, parking spaces directly in front of the institute, an e-charging station, and a parking garage.

The position is limited in duration until completion of the thesis. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:

Dr.-Ing. Manuel Jung. Phone: +49 241 8906-669

Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 85717 Application Deadline: 11/30/2026