Research Associate / PhD Candidate for Aerial Robotic Fabrication

Heterogeneous Aerial Robot Teams for In Situ Building Assembly (HARPA)

About us: The Professorship of Digital Fabrication, led by Prof. Dr. Kathrin Dörfler, is dedicated to pioneering digital fabrication techniques in architecture. We explore how novel computational and robotic methods can expand design capabilities and contribute to resource-efficient construction. We are seeking a motivated Research Associate / PhD candidate to join our interdisciplinary team within the framework of HARPA—a research project funded by the EU Pathfinder Challenge.

Position overview

Are you interested in digital construction technologies and enjoy working in an interdisciplinary research team? Do you have a passion for new design strategies and experimental research? Can you imagine actively participating in a highly collaborative academic environment? Are you interested in developing your own research topic in this context for the completion of a PhD degree? If so, we invite you to become part of HARPA—an exciting project at the intersection of design computation, AI, and robotic fabrication. Learn more about the project here and here. The position is expected to start by 1 October 2026. For further information about the research environment, please visit the website of the Professorship here.

What we offer

We offer a fully funded PhD position in an interdisciplinary academic environment, a vivid research team, and excellent working conditions at the research facility of TUM. The employment takes place with the appropriate remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the civil service of the country (TV-L E13). The position is limited to four years and is expected to start by 1 October 2026. TUM aims to increase the number of women employees, and applications from women are expressly welcomed. Preference will be given to candidates with disabilities with essentially the same qualifications.

What you should bring

You have a master’s degree in Architecture or Civil Engineering or have an equivalent degree (e.g., Building Technologies, CS, Mech.Eng., Robotics). You should have a particular interest in digital design and manufacturing technology and systems design. Ideally, you have skills in CAD modelling, geometry processing, and programming, as well as prior knowledge in digital fabrication. Finally, you are fluent in English (German skills are welcome but not mandatory), are highly motivated, reliable, and have excellent teamworking skills.

Information to the application process

We look forward to receiving your application by the 28th of June 2025 via email to info.df@ed.tum.de. Your application should include a cover letter, CV, and a statement of experience/portfolio.

Kathrin Dörfler, Prof. Dr.
Technical University of Munich
TUM School of Engineering and Design
Department of Architecture
Professorship of Digital Fabrication
Arcisstrasse 21
80333 Munich
www.arc.ed.tum.de/df
http://amc-trr277.de

The position is suitable for disabled persons. Disabled applicants will be given preference in case of generally equivalent suitability, aptitude and professional performance.

Data Protection Information:
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Kontakt: info.df@ed.tum.de