RESEARCH SCIENTIST in 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and Satellite Communications

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft fraunhofer.de Open · verified Sep 18, 2026

Bonn Mid-level Communications

Mid-level Communications role at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. Bonn.

Role brief

Growth Roles summary, based on the employer's posting.

What you'll do

Develop 5G NTN and satellite communication concepts, simulations, emulations, and prototypes
Run national and international projects while contributing to standards and expert committees
Prepare technical reports and proposals, then document the results of your work
Publish research findings and present them at international conferences and symposia

What you bring

A completed master’s degree or equivalent in computer science or a related discipline
Strong expertise in 5G NTN or satellite communications, plus data collection and analysis skills
Programming experience, especially in Python, and openness to learning additional tools and languages
Willingness to travel within Germany and internationally, particularly across Europe
Excellent spoken and written German and English, with an independent and scientifically careful approach

Who this fits

You’ll suit this role if you’re motivated by communications research, defense and security applications, and practical technology development. The position is based in Bonn and supports flexible hours, remote work, and part-time arrangements. It begins as a two-year appointment with a thirty-nine-hour weekly schedule, and includes national and international travel.

From the employer

The Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE researches new, innovative, and intelligent command and information systems. In doing so, we offer our approximately 630 employees challenging and diverse tasks with responsibility and creative freedom.

The “Communication Systems” (KOM) department develops complex hardware and software systems for the efficient use, reconnaissance, and disruption of communication systems. Based on a profound understanding of the requirements of real-world operational scenarios, concepts, methods, and functional prototypes are created and, together with national and international partners, developed into practical solutions.

Are you fascinated by the technical details of communication systems used in scenarios for the defense and security of Germany? Would you like to apply the latest AI methods in practice? Then you have come to the right place.

At our site in Bonn, we are looking for a Research Scientist in 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and Satellite Communications at the earliest possible date.

Be part of change

You actively contribute to research and development in the fields of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and satellite communications, ranging from the development of new communication system concepts to the analysis, simulation, and emulation of existing systems, as well as prototype development.
A key focus of your work will be the execution of national and international projects and participation in international standardization and expert committees.
In addition, you will prepare technical reports and project proposals and be responsible for documenting the results achieved.
You will also author scientific publications and present your work at relevant international conferences and symposia.

What you contribute

Successfully completed a university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Computer Science or a related field, ideally with a specialization in networking or communication systems
Strong knowledge of 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and/or satellite communications, as well as data acquisition and data analysis
Proven programming experience, particularly in Python, combined with a willingness to learn and work with new tools and programming languages
Willingness to undertake national and international business travel, particularly within Europe
You are passionate about technology and research, demonstrate initiative, and possess a reliable, scientifically rigorous approach to work. In addition, you have excellent written and spoken German and English language skills.

What we offer

As a Research Scientist, you will be part of a dedicated and collegial team that provides comprehensive support, especially during the onboarding phase. At Fraunhofer FKIE, we foster a family-friendly and international culture. We offer flexible working hours and the option of remote work to accommodate individual needs. In addition, we provide opportunities for personal development through training programs, a company pension scheme (VBL), and access to a subsidized Germany job ticket.

The position is initially limited to a period of 2 years. The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis.

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. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Additionally Fraunhofer may grant performance-based variable remuneration components.

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.

If you have any questions regarding this position, please contact:

Peter Sevenich

Tel.: +49 (0) 228 9435-317

Dr. Dominic Laniewski

Tel.: +49 (0) 228 50212-459

Fraunhofer Institute for Communication, Information Processing and Ergonomics FKIE

www.fkie.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 85315 Application Deadline: