Master's Thesis - Development of strategic market analysis tools for future areas at Fraunhofer FEP

The Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology FEP works on innovative solutions for vacuum coating and the treatment of surfaces, liquids and gases.

Based on our core competencies electron beam technology, magnetron sputtering and plasma-assisted surface processes, Fraunhofer FEP develops resource-saving and efficient process technologies for the strategic fields of energy and sustainability, life science, environmental technologies, smart building and digitalization.

To support our team, we are offering students a topic for a master's thesis to start as soon as possible.

Be part of change

Surface and thin film engineering, treatment of gases and liquids using electron and plasma sources, and vacuum coating – these are our focus areas at the Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology FEP in Dresden. As a research and development partner for companies and institutions, we conceptualise innovative solutions, technologies, and processes for a wide range of application areas, including energy technologies, sustainability, biotechnology, microelectronics, and aviation and space.

We are looking for a motivated candidate (all genders) to develop a practical toolbox, including methodology and prototypes (data pipeline/dashboard), to systematically identify and evaluate strategic topics based on the FEP competencies and promising results from diverse research and development projects. The goal is to develop a robust approach to identify emerging market and funding opportunities.

• Define the problem and target vision together with Business Development and specialist departments
• Data collection and preparation (internal/public sources)
• Develop analysis and evaluation methods (e.g., bibliometrics, patent and funding landscape analyses, competency mapping)
• Validation using 2–3 use cases, including actionable recommendations
• Documentation for use within the institute

What you contribute

The position is open to students studying Industrial Engineering and Management, Innovation Management or similar subjects.

You should have an interest in technology trends and strategic issues and a structured approach to your work.

In addition, you have:

• Confident use of MS Office (especially Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet research,
• Very good communication skills,
• Very good German skills, Good written and spoken English skills.

What we offer

• Insight into one of the world's leading research companies,
• Collaboration on innovative research projects in an interdisciplinary team,
• Close supervision by subject matter experts
• Access to real institute data sets and stakeholders
• Expansion of theoretical knowledge through practical application,
• A modern, internationally oriented working environment,
• High practical relevance with concrete added value for the institute
• Access to the in-house library,
• Flexible working hours for a good work-life balance and, if necessary, adaptation to the semester schedule,
• Opportunities for professional and personal development and the establishment of an extensive network of expertise and cooperation opportunities
• Family-friendly work culture with flexible working conditions (various working time models, flexible location and working hours, mobile working)
• Access to barrier-free workplaces and technical aids, as well as individual support for integration into the work environment

The weekly working time is 39 hours.

Remuneration for the master's thesis is not paid. However, there is the possibility of accepting a paid position as an student assistant at the institute for approximately 35 hours per month. The position is limited to the duration of the master's 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. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Additionally Fraunhofer may grant performance-based variable remuneration components.

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.

Do you have any questions about the position? If you have any technical questions about this position, please contact:

Dr. Christian May

Phone: +49 351 2586-220

Do you have questions about the application process or accessibility? Do you need assistance? Our recruiter is here to help:

Ms. Anke Gottlöber

[email protected]

Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology FEP

Requisition Number: 83003Application Deadline: 02/11/2026