INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Student Assistant Photonics, Sensing, and Machine Learning

CompanyFraunhofer-Gesellschaft
LocationBerlin
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJune 5, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The role involves developing photonic networks and sensing systems using digital signal processing and machine learning algorithms. Responsibilities include experimentally characterizing optical components and simulating optical systems in a laboratory setting.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
293
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
20 hours
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About The Company
Fraunhofer IGD is the international leading institute for applied research in visual computing. Visual computing is image- and model-based information technology and includes computer graphics and computer vision, as well as virtual and augmented reality. In simple terms, the Fraunhofer researchers in Darmstadt, Rostock, and Kiel are turning information into images and extracting information from images. In cooperation with its partners, technical solutions and market-relevant products are created. Prototypes and integrated solutions are developed in accordance with customized requirements. In doing so, Fraunhofer IGD places users at the forefront, providing them with technical solutions to facilitate computer work and make it more efficient. Owing to its numerous innovations, Fraunhofer IGD raises man-machine interaction to a new level. Man is able to work in a more result-oriented and effective way by means of the computer and visual computing developments.
About the Role

Future. Discover. Together.

As a leading research institution based in Berlin, the Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute creates innovations for the digital society of the future and is a world leader in the field of optical data transmission. Building on many years of experience, its outstanding expertise in optical wireless communications also enables the development of solutions in closely related technology fields, such as photonic sensing. In recent years, activities in photonic sensing (e.g., fiber optic sensing, LiDAR, medical technology) have grown into a key focus area. This young and dynamic field of research opens up exciting scientific projects with clear practical applications. We offer the sought-after combination of a highly interesting scientific environment and insight into industry-oriented work. Become part of our team and join us on a journey of research and innovation!

 

Be part of change

  • Contribute to the development of photonic networks and sensing systems
  • Implement digital signal processing techniques (Python or MATLAB)
  • Experimentally characterize optical and electrical components (lasers, optical components, optical fibers, etc.)
  • Plan, simulate, and set up optical systems in the laboratory
  • Document and evaluate experimental and simulation results
  • Develop and validate machine learning and deep learning algorithms for photonic sensing applications

 

What you contribute

  • Enrolled full-time student at a German university, preferably in Physics, Electrical and Communication Engineering, Computer Science, or a comparable field, with excellent academic performance
  • Strong initiative and interest in scientific work
  • Good spoken and written English
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas: optics / laser and fiber optics; digital signal processing; experimental lab work and measurement setups; machine learning (e.g., CNN, deep learning)
  • Experience with tools such as ZEMAX OpticStudio, VPIphotonics, MATLAB, Python, or TensorFlow/PyTorch is an advantage

 

What we offer

  • Extremely interesting challenges in a scientifically and entrepreneurially shaped environment
  • A modern, well-equipped workplace in a central location — just a few minutes from TU Berlin
  • A good and cooperative working atmosphere in an international team
  • Flexible working hours for a good work-life-study balance
  • Support with writing your Bachelor's or Master's thesis
  • Attractive salary

 

The position is initially limited to 1 year. An extension is explicitly desired.

 

The monthly working time is 80 hours. 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.
 

Marco Ceran - marco.ceran@hhi.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, Heinrich Hertz Institute HHI 

www.hhi.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 84619                Application Deadline: 06/30/2026

 

Key Skills
PhotonicsSensingMachine LearningDigital Signal ProcessingPythonMATLABOptical CharacterizationZEMAX OpticStudioVPIphotonicsTensorFlowPyTorchDeep LearningCNNFiber OpticsLiDARLaboratory Setup
Categories
Science & ResearchEngineeringTechnologyData & AnalyticsSoftware
Benefits
Modern Well-equipped WorkplaceCentral LocationCooperative Working AtmosphereInternational TeamFlexible Working HoursThesis SupportAttractive Salary