Full Professorship (W3) in Cognitive Robotic Systems and Production Automation

Otto-von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg

39106 Magdeburg

Bewerbungsfrist: 2026-10-31

Overview

The Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at OVGU invites applications for a Full Professorship (W3) in Cognitive Robotic Systems and Production Automation and, in Joint Appointment, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF (m/f/d).
OVGU is a research-oriented university with ~14,000 students and ~2,800 employees, known for engineering and interdisciplinary collaboration.
This is a joint appointment with Fraunhofer IFF, focusing on robotics, automation, and cyber-physical production systems.

Overall strategic, scientific, and financial responsibility for Fraunhofer IFF.
Strengthening and further developing the scientific expertise at OVGU, particularly with the Institute of Engineering of Products and Systems.
Developing and implementing a forward-looking strategy for Fraunhofer IFF aligned with technological trends and Fraunhofer objectives.
Entrepreneurial management of Fraunhofer IFF, including budgets, personnel, and research infrastructure, as well as ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Building, leading, and developing a high-performing leadership team and fostering an innovative, collaborative organizational culture.
Defining and prioritizing the institute's research roadmap in robotics, automation, digitalization, and AI.
Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with industrial partners, governmental bodies, research institutions, and funding agencies; representing the institute nationally and internationally.
Promoting early-career researchers and contributing to academic teaching at the university.

doctoral degree with distinction and habilitation or equivalent qualifications.
Internationally recognized publication record in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
Experience in planning, acquisition, and management of competitively funded research projects (industry-funded preferred).
Proven leadership of large interdisciplinary research groups and industry collaboration experience.

Excellent command of English.
Excellent command of German (CEFR level C1) or willingness to acquire proficiency.

Outstanding leadership position with extensive strategic and managerial responsibility.
Excellent research infrastructure, motivated teams, and strong industrial partner network.
Interdisciplinary teaching: robotics, automated production systems, Industry X.0 (4 SWS).
Family-friendly HR policies and flexible working arrangements; equal opportunities for women and men.

Submit application with CV, career description, list of publications, courses taught, teaching achievements, research/teaching plans, and certificates.
Deadline: 31 October 2026 (date of receipt).
Electronic submission as a single PDF to OVGU and Fraunhofer IFF contacts.