INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Thesis: 3D Glass Processing Using Selective Laser-induced Etching (SLE)

CompanyFraunhofer-Gesellschaft
LocationAachen
Work ModeOn Site
PostedSeptember 10, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The candidate will investigate the effects of laser parameters on the surface quality of 3D structures in N-BK7 borosilicate glass using selective laser-induced etching. Responsibilities include analyzing process windows and characterizing surface quality using advanced microscopy techniques.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
296
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 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

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: »Formation and Effects of Stress in N-BK7 During 3D Glass Processing Using Selective Laser-induced Etching (SLE)«.

 

The In-Volume Structuring & Lithography Group focuses on processing a wide range of materials, including metals and glasses, using ultrashort-pulsed (USP) laser radiation with pulse durations in the picosecond range. Advanced laser processes such as selective laser-induced etching (SLE) are used to manufacture highly precise glass components with feature sizes below 1 µm for applications in the semiconductor industry, medical technology, optics, and quantum technology. Current challenges include expanding the range of processable materials, such as borosilicate glasses, and investigating the fundamental interaction mechanisms underlying the SLE process in these materials. 

 

Be part of change

  • The goal is to investigate and understand the effect of different laser parameters on the surface quality of 2D and 3D structures in N-BK7 borosilicate glass
  • To this end, you will examine and analyze the established process windows under varying process parameters 
  • You will then characterize the surface quality using our laser scanning microscope and white-light interferometer
  • In addition, you will investigate the deposited energy and process-induced stresses using integrating sphere and polarisation-contrast microscopy
  • Depending on your field of study and prior knowledge, the results may also be compared with theoretical simulations
Key Skills
Laser technologySelective laser-induced etchingGlass processingMaterial scienceLaser scanning microscopyWhite-light interferometryPolarisation-contrast microscopyData analysisExperimental researchBorosilicate glass analysis
Categories
Science & ResearchEngineeringTechnologyManufacturing