Mechatronics Engineer - Cad, Cognitive Neuropsychology (M/F/D)

The Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, investigates the attentional, cognitive, and affective mechanisms of aesthetic perception and evaluation.

The Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology invites applications for a

Mechatronics Engineer (m/f/x)

Full Time (39 hours per week)

Headed by Prof. Dr. Fredrik Ullén, the Department of Cognitive Neuropsychology at the MPI for Empirical Aesthetics uses music as a model to analyze the brain mechanisms underpinning human expertise, skill learning, and creativity. We provide a dynamic and enthusiastic research environment in which a broad range of techniques are employed, from structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging to psychological and physiological experiments to behavior, genetic analyses of gene-environment interplay. For more information about the department, please visit our website.

We are looking for a creative and driven engineer with a high level of intellectual independence who is interested in innovation and practical problem solving in the context of state-of-the-art scientific research on music and the brain. Examples of projects include the design, manufacture, and maintenance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compatible equipment, such as piano keyboards and other instruments.

Your responsibilities will include:

• design and construction of measurement devices and instruments for use during MRI and other types of physiological experiments (e.g., piano keyboards, other MRI-compatible instruments)
• building up and maintaining a mechanical workshop for construction of instruments and other novel experimental equipment
• system development for advanced experimental setups involving stimulus generation (e.g., auditory stimuli, brain stimulation with transcranial magnetic stimulation, Steinway Spirio computer-controlled grand piano) and the simultaneous collection of physiological and behavioral data from multiple devices
• development of individualized hardware / software solutions in the context of scientific-technical-artistic work
• presentation of current R&D projects and implementation of training (internal / external)

Your qualifications:

• a M.Sc. in mechatronic engineering or related field of engineering
• knowledge and experience with using CAD tools for designing and constructing 3D models
• knowledge and experience with analog circuit design
• knowledge and experience with opto-electrical equipment (optical fibers, optical sensors, etc.), sensorics, analog electronics, and components such as EC and AC motors
• knowledge and experience with printed circuit board (PCB) simulation and layout tools
• good command of English, both written and spoken
• good command of German is a plus
• active interest in music is a plus

What we offer:

The Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics provides a highly interdisciplinary and international scientific environment, with English and German being the languages spoken in the laboratories. It is located in an attractive location with excellent infrastructure in Frankfurt’s Westend neighborhood. You can expect a modern workplace with a pleasant and inspiring working atmosphere.

Salary is paid in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD Bund), commensurate with the successful applicant’s qualifications and experience. This is a permanent position. The earliest start date will be in April, 2023.