SD 25059–Lead R&T Scientist in Automated Fiber/Tape Placement

Permanent contract | Hautcharage

Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a leading Research and Technology Organization (RTO) dedicated to advancing the frontiers of science and technology in the domains of materials, environmental sciences, and information technology. Committed to the seamless integration of cutting-edge research and innovation, LIST translates scientific insights into transformative technologies, intelligent data solutions, and innovative tools. You will join the Structural Composite Unit and the Advanced Composite Manufacturing and Testing (AMCT) research group. The AMCT research group combines expertise in process modelling, design and performance optimization, and innovative manufacturing process development.

Do you want to know more about LIST? check our website: https://www.list.lu/

How will you contribute?

Join our dynamic team with this exciting job opportunity focused on the development of an innovative approach for producing aeronautics structures.

Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is deeply investigating how to develop innovative approaches for producing composites structures using automated fibre/tape placement process.

Automated Fibre/Tape Placement (AFP/ATP) is a cutting-edge manufacturing process that uses robotic systems to lay narrow strips of pre-impregnated carbon fibre or other composites onto moulds with exceptional precision. By applying heat and pressure during placement, the process ensures strong adhesion and consolidation, enabling the production of lightweight, high-performance parts with excellent repeatability.

This advanced technology is transforming sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy, making it possible to manufacture complex structures that combine strength, efficiency, and reduced material waste. Working with AFP/ATP means being at the forefront of innovation in composite manufacturing, contributing to the development of next-generation structures that are lighter, stronger, and more sustainable.

This position provides a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of transformative advancements in structural composite manufacturing technology.

Your activities will include:

• Develop, optimise, and validate the AFP/ATP process by mastering all phases of design and manufacturing, including heating, placement, consolidation, layer-by-layer building, and inspection. A solid understanding of each step is essential to achieve the highest standards of manufacturing quality.
• Contribute to material selection by evaluating and down-selecting resins and fibres of interest, and optimise the production of UD tape to minimise initial void content and maintain tight control over the pre-cure state.
• Investigate and apply innovative AFP/ATP approaches for the manufacture of complex composite structures, and validate demonstrators at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4–5.
• Lead high-impact projects in close collaboration with key industrial partners, driving forward the adoption of advanced composite manufacturing technologies.
• Stay at the forefront of research and technology trends in automated composites manufacturing, helping to translate emerging innovations into industrial practice.
• Engage in knowledge transfer and training, sharing expertise with colleagues and contributing to the development of best practices within the organisation.

Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

Education

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• A PhD directly focused on automated fibre/tape placement is a strong plus.
• 3–5 years of industrial experience in composite manufacturing processes.
• Expertise in composite processing, material characterisation techniques, and inspection methods.
• Hands-on experience in manufacturing flat, curved, and double-curved structures, as well as tubes and vessels using both thermoset and thermoplastic materials.
• Hands-on experience with robotic systems (e.g., KUKA, ABB) applied to composite manufacturing and automated fibre/tape placement.
• Familiarity with specific AFP/ATP programming software for robotic control.
• Experience in consolidation processes for both thermoset and thermoplastic composite materials.
• Experience with a wide range of fibre types, including glass, aramid, basalt, and natural fibres in addition to carbon and their processing with thermoset and thermoplastic resin systems in advanced composite manufacturing.
• Ability to optimise manufacturing processes, reduce cycle times, and improve reliability through automation.
• Experience in purchasing and setting up new equipment, including leading Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT), is a strong advantage.
• Strong problem-solving mindset, with experience troubleshooting process deviations and implementing corrective actions in an industrial setting.
• Project management experience is an advantage.
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams including the industrial partners.
• Excellent job autonomy in the management of technical, time management and organizational issues.
• Outstanding internal and external reporting qualities.
• Industrial experience is a big plus

Language skills

• Fluent in English, both written and oral.

Your LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce
• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience;
• A scientific CV with contact details;
• List of publications (and patents, if applicable);
• Contact details of 2 references.