PhD Position in Software Architecture

About the Role

This position focuses on advancing software architecture modeling techniques for intelligent, cloud-native systems. Working across KIT and ABB Corporate Research, you will develop innovative solutions for improving design-time evaluations, runtime optimizations, and maintenance of software systems.

You will contribute to the development of approaches that reduce the complexity of configuring large-scale distributed systems and play a vital role in ABB’s "DevOps for Industrial Automation" initiative. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of academia and industry, leveraging state-of-the-art tools and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct scientific research on intelligent design and analysis technologies for industrial cloud-native software architectures.
• Develop novel modeling techniques for design-time evaluations, simulations, and runtime optimizations.
• Innovate methods to reduce configuration complexity for large-scale distributed systems using container orchestration technologies.
• Collaborate with ABB Corporate Research to implement concepts into prototypes and validate them in industrial settings.
• Conduct empirical research to tailor technologies for seamless integration into software development units.
• Work closely with ABB software architects to gather requirements and address design constraints.
• Document findings in reports and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Eligibility Requirements

We are hiring motivated candidates with the following qualifications and skills:

Required Qualifications:

• MSc or equivalent degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience in object-oriented software design and development (e.g., C, C++, C#, Java, Python).
• Proficient in English, with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Knowledge of software architecture and cloud-native technologies.
• Familiarity with model-based software development (e.g., UML, OCL, DSLs, Digital Twins).
• Experience with virtualization and container technologies (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Knowledge of infrastructure-as-code tools (e.g., Ansible, Terraform).
• Exposure to lean/agile development processes (e.g., Scrum, Kanban).
• A proactive mindset with strong creativity, initiative, and problem-solving abilities.

What We Offer

Joining KIT and ABB Corporate Research means working at the forefront of software architecture innovation in a collaborative and supportive environment.

Benefits Include:

• Flexible working arrangements (flexitime, work-from-home opportunities).
• Access to KIT’s state-of-the-art research facilities and ABB’s cutting-edge technologies.
• Opportunities for professional growth through KIT’s training programs and ABB’s industry connections.
• Subsidized public transport through the Job Ticket Baden-Württemberg.
• A diverse and inclusive workplace that values collaboration and individual contributions.

Application Process

To apply, please submit the following documents in English as a single PDF:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2. Motivational Letter
3. Copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s theses
4. Certificates and any relevant publications

Submit your application online using the vacancy number 1442/2024 to Ms. Jana Kehrer, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Human Resources.

For further inquiries, contact:

• Prof. Ralf Reussner (KIT): +49 721 608-44067
• Dr. Marie Platenius-Mohr (ABB): +49 170 9370463
• Dr.-Ing. Heiko Koziolek (ABB): +49 160 909 33 454

Application Deadline: 15 January 2025

Equal Opportunities

KIT and ABB value diversity and inclusion. Female applicants and recognized severely disabled persons will be given preference if equally qualifie