Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST
Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films IST
Two physical laboratory technician trainees work on the large-scale coating system at the Fraunhofer IST.
© Fraunhofer IST

© Fraunhofer IST

Training Physics Laboratory Assistant

Starting in 2026

Physics Laboratory Assistant – what does that mean exactly?

For this profession, there are a range of significant areas of study: from vacuum technology, materials science and electrical engineering through optics, thermodynamics and mechanical engineering and on to analytics, chemistry and even radioactivity. In short – Physics Laboratory Assistants are absolutely essential to science, research and industry.

At the Fraunhofer IST, Physics Laboratory Assistants determine the properties of materials and technical systems by carrying out experiments and test series. To achieve this, they plan out the apparatus and carry out experiments using a diverse range of instruments. They document, analyze and interpret the results achieved and prepare them, for example, for presentation to scientists. In addition, they are responsible for operating the coating systems used to produce functional coatings with physical and chemical processes.

You will find comprehensive information on this job profile and on how to apply at www.physiklaboranten.de. The portal is a joint project from the Fraunhofer IST, the PTB Braunschweig and the TU Braunschweig.

The Fraunhofer IST will once again be offering two Physics Laboratory Assistant apprentice positions to start on 1st of September, 2026.

An advanced school leaving certificate (erweiterte Realschulabschluss, 16+) or higher/equivalent qualification is required with good grades in math and science. The most important thing is an interest in and enjoyment of physical and chemical interactions. The ability to work in a team as well as the ability to work with concentration and independence are also required.

Trainee physics laboratory technician in the laboratory at the large-scale coating plant at the Fraunhofer IST.
© Fraunhofer IST
Physics laboratory technicians prepare systems and equipment for experiments, carry out series of experiments and record and log measurement data.
Trainees at the Fraunhofer IST learn the profession of physics laboratory technician, in the course of which they also carry out office work in addition to their tasks in the laboratory.
© Fraunhofer IST
In addition to working in the laboratory, our future physics laboratory technicians also carry out a wide range of tasks at their office workstation. For example, they write protocols and perform calculations. They also learn theoretical principles.
Physics laboratory technician trainees prepare for their work in the laboratory.
© Fraunhofer IST
Safety always comes first in the laboratory. During their training, our future physics laboratory technicians learn early on how to behave in a wide variety of laboratory environments.
Physics laboratory assistant at the SALD facility at the Fraunhofer IST
© Fraunhofer IST
The training takes place in various specialist areas. Accordingly, our trainees get to know the broad spectrum of technologies, processes and coating materials during their time at the Fraunhofer IST.
Student research assistant examines the surface of a component using a microscope.
© Fraunhofer IST
Our trainees test the quality of materials and products and learn various methods of surface analysis and testing technology. From the scanning electron microscope (SEM) to the confocal laser microscope (LSM) and spectroscopic measuring methods – the range of analytical equipment at the Fraunhofer IST is diverse.
Physics laboratory assistant trainee at the inline large area coating facility at the Fraunhofer IST
© Fraunhofer IST
An interest in scientific and technical issues, a good understanding of physics, mathematics and chemistry as well as creativity and perseverance in solving technical problems characterize physics laboratory technicians.

In portrait: Trainees in research

At the Fraunhofer IST we offer training in four apprenticeship professions. Training to become a physics laboratory assistant is one of them. Friederike and Denis recently completed their training at the Fraunhofer IST and provide us with a review.