Computer Scientist (M.Sc.) or Engineer (M.Sc.)

German Aerospace Center (DLR); Braunschweig; On-site; EUR 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Braunschweig seeks a researcher for autonomous driving projects. In this role, you will develop and test innovative solutions, focusing on trajectory planning and control. You will apply your C++ and AI expertise, participate in exciting research endeavors, and communicate findings internationally.

Your contributions will help shape the future of sustainable mobility and autonomous vehicle technology in Germany.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Diploma degree required, preferably in Computer Science or a related field.
• Excellent knowledge of real-time motion planning for automated vehicles.
• Advanced programming skills in C++ and Python.

Responsibilities

• Analyse current autonomous driving software systems for safety and resilience.
• Design new algorithms for trajectory planning using AI.
• Implement algorithms in open-source systems and evaluate them.

Skills

C++

Python

Real-time motion planning

AI

Control engineering

Problem solving

Education

Master’s or Diploma in Computer Science or related field

Tools

ROS

Job description

At the DLR Institute of Transportation Systems we conduct research into technologies for the intermodal connected and automated transport of the future on road and rail. To achieve this, we are working in interdisciplinary teams with a total of 250 scientists on the development of innovative operating concepts and methods. Our goal is to ensure climate‑neutral and sustainable mobility in cities and regions.

Digitalization and automation aimed at achieving low‑emission transport define our institute’s research activities in the field of road traffic. The connectivity of vehicles with infrastructure opens up new opportunities for traffic optimisation and provides novel technological solutions for controlling automated vehicles and infrastructure systems. Furthermore, it seamlessly integrates all road users into the overall transport ecosystem. Innovative operational concepts for passenger and freight fleets will render the management of traffic networks more sustainable and efficient. Through the “Testfeld Niedersachsen” (Lower Saxony Test Field) and the “Anwendungsplattform Intelligente Mobilität” (AIM – Application Platform for Intelligent Mobility), we possess a technology platform spanning highways, urban streets, and rural roads unique on an international scale for testing highly automated and connected vehicles.

Our automated, cooperative research vehicles – along with ADORe®, the open‑source automation software we initiated – enable the testing of novel approaches both on dedicated test grounds and in real‑world traffic environments.

Mission

Drive the advancement of autonomous driving! You will develop and test innovative cooperative approaches for autonomous vehicles leveraging your expertise in decision‑making, manoeuvre and trajectory planning, and vehicle control. In doing so, you will apply your profound knowledge of C++ and Artificial Intelligence directly within exciting research projects (at both national and European levels). Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to help shape new research projects and to guide them through to completion, should they receive funding.

Responsibilities

• Analyse and evaluate current software systems for autonomous driving regarding safety, resilience, and cooperativity.
• Design and develop new algorithms for trajectory planning and decision‑making, utilising approaches from AI and control engineering.
• Implement these algorithms in open‑source systems and evaluate them in simulations and test vehicles.
• Present the associated results at national and international conferences.
• Support or lead national and international research projects, both administratively and substantively.

Qualifications

• A completed Master’s or Diploma degree in Computer Science, an engineering discipline, or a related field that qualifies you to meet the requirements of this position.
• Excellent knowledge of real‑time motion planning for automated road vehicles, particularly regarding trajectory and manoeuvre planning.
• Advanced programming skills at a minimum in C++ and Python and proven success in applying these skills in initial practical projects, specifically within ROS.
• A strong understanding of complex system interdependencies and the ability to approach challenges analytically and in a solution‑oriented manner from concept development through to implementation.
• Strong communication skills and initial experience working collaboratively in a team environment whether in technical discussions, coordinating with colleagues, or presenting results.
• Excellent written and spoken German and English skills, enabling you to communicate confidently in both national and international contexts.
• Basic knowledge of project management and excellent organisational skills.
• A Class B driver’s licence, authorising you to operate research vehicles.