Studentische Hilfskraft (m,w,d) für UX-Design im Wissenschaftsmarketing

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Studentische Hilfskraft (m,w,d) für UX-Design im Wissenschaftsmarketing Company: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Location: Berlin, Germany Job Type: Part-Time Category: Operations / Marketing Operations / Digital Design Support Date Posted: August 13, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is designed for a student to support the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology (IPK) in their scientific marketing efforts, specifically focusing on digital user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design for web and app applications.
• The position involves hands-on creation of design elements, mockups, and prototypes, contributing directly to the usability and aesthetic appeal of digital platforms used in scientific outreach and product showcases.
• Key responsibilities include supporting content creation and coordination for these digital applications, ensuring a cohesive and engaging user journey aligned with the institute's research and development messaging.
• The role offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience within a leading European applied research organization, bridging the gap between scientific innovation and user-centric digital design.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, the "Wissenschaftsmarketing" (Scientific Marketing) aspect implies a focus on communicating complex research and technology to various audiences, including potential industry partners and the public. This requires a strong emphasis on clear, user-friendly digital interfaces to effectively convey the value and impact of Fraunhofer's work. The UX/UI design skills are crucial for making the institute's digital presence intuitive and impactful, aligning with broader GTM (Go-To-Market) strategies by enhancing brand perception and engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the creation, conception, coordination, and alignment of content for web and app applications, with a primary focus on UX/UI design principles and scientific marketing objectives.
• Develop mockups, prototypes, and final user interface designs, ensuring they are intuitive, user-friendly, and visually appealing, reflecting the institute's innovation and research focus.
• Create and maintain individual elements of the design system to ensure consistency across all digital platforms and applications.
• Assist in the testing of web and app applications to identify usability issues and gather feedback for design improvements, contributing to iterative design processes.
• Design and implement informational materials and presentations that effectively communicate scientific research and technological advancements to target audiences.
• Collaborate with internal teams to understand project requirements and translate them into effective digital design solutions that support scientific marketing goals.
• Contribute to the overall user experience strategy by participating in brainstorming sessions and providing creative input on digital product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design execution and collaborative support within a research environment. For a student role, the "support" aspect is key, indicating a learning and development focus where the incumbent will contribute under guidance. The focus on "Wissenschaftsmarketing" means the design work is not purely aesthetic but serves the strategic purpose of communicating scientific value and fostering engagement with research outputs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Media Design, Communication Design, Informatics, or a closely related field, demonstrating a foundational understanding of digital design principles and technical concepts.

Experience:

• Possess initial experience in the conception and design of web and mobile applications, showcasing an understanding of user-centered design methodologies and digital product development lifecycles.
• Familiarity with design and prototyping tools such as Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, or similar software is essential for translating concepts into tangible designs.

Required Skills:

• UX/UI Design Principles: Solid understanding of user experience and user interface design best practices, including information architecture, wireframing, prototyping, and visual design.
• Prototyping Tools: Proficiency in at least one industry-standard design and prototyping tool (e.g., Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch) for creating interactive mockups.
• Content Creation Support: Ability to assist in developing and organizing content for digital platforms, ensuring clarity and engagement for scientific marketing purposes.
• Design System Fundamentals: Understanding of design systems and the ability to create or work with design components for consistency.
• Testing & Feedback: Aptitude for participating in user testing and providing constructive feedback for design iterations.
• Communication Design: Skills in creating effective visual communication materials, including presentations and informational graphics.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within a team environment, collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Self-Management: Capacity for independent work and initiative, coupled with strong organizational skills to manage tasks and deadlines.
• Creativity & Flexibility: Demonstrated creativity in problem-solving and design, along with flexibility to adapt to evolving project requirements and new tasks.
• Interdisciplinary Aptitude: Interest in and ability to learn about interdisciplinary tasks and adapt to new areas of responsibility within a research context.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with graphic design software beyond prototyping tools (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator).
• Basic understanding of web development concepts (HTML, CSS) to inform design decisions for implementability.
• Familiarity with scientific research or marketing communication strategies.
• Previous experience in a research or academic environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are standard for a junior UX/UI designer, but the context of "Wissenschaftsmarketing" adds a layer of needing to translate complex technical information into accessible and engaging user experiences. The "interdisciplinary aptitude" and "interest in new task areas" are crucial for a student role in a research institute, indicating a willingness to learn and adapt to diverse projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating a clear understanding of the UX/UI design process, from initial research and ideation through wireframing, prototyping, user testing, and final visual design.
• Prototyping Examples: Inclusion of interactive prototypes that showcase user flows and the functionality of designed applications, highlighting your ability to create tangible digital experiences.
• Visual Design Execution: Samples of user interfaces (web or mobile) that demonstrate aesthetic sensibility, adherence to design best practices, and a strong grasp of visual hierarchy and layout.
• Problem-Solving Case Studies: At least one case study detailing a specific design challenge, your approach to solving it, and the resulting improvements in user experience or engagement.
• Content Integration: Examples of how you've integrated content or information into designs to effectively guide users and communicate key messages, relevant to scientific marketing.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of your ability to map out user journeys and design workflows for digital products, ensuring logical navigation and task completion.
• System Component Design: Examples of creating reusable design elements or contributing to a style guide/design system, demonstrating an understanding of consistency and scalability.
• Testing & Iteration: Documentation or description of how you approach user testing and incorporate feedback to iterate on designs, showing a commitment to user-centered improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student role, the portfolio is less about extensive project history and more about demonstrating potential, process understanding, and foundational skills. The emphasis should be on clarity of thought, the design process, and the ability to articulate design decisions. For this specific role, showcasing how design can effectively communicate complex or scientific information would be highly beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a student assistant position, compensation will be based on the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft's collective agreement for the employment of student assistants. This typically aligns with German federal rates for student workers, often varying based on the number of hours worked and the student's academic year or experience level. For a student working 40 hours per month, the rate is generally competitive for part-time student employment in Berlin. For 80 hours per month, it would be proportionally higher.
• Estimated Range (for reference, actual will be per collective agreement): Approximately €12-€15 per hour, depending on the specific agreement and role classification.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Hours: Work schedules can be arranged to accommodate your university studies, offering a good work-life balance.
• Team Environment: Opportunity to work within a supportive and collaborative team, fostering a positive and productive work atmosphere.
• Insight into Modern Technologies: Gain direct exposure to cutting-edge research, innovative manufacturing processes, and advanced technologies utilized in a leading research institute.
• Involvement in Research Projects: Participate in current research projects, providing hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of applied science and innovation.
• Professional Development: Exposure to real-world project cycles and professional design practices within a respected research organization.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with researchers, engineers, and marketing professionals, building valuable professional contacts.

Working Hours:

• The monthly working hours are negotiable between 40 and 80 hours, offering flexibility to students with varying academic commitments. The exact distribution of these hours will be agreed upon with the supervisor.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "Gesamtbetriebsvereinbarung zur Beschäftigung der Hilfskräfte" indicates a formalized pay structure for student assistants. The flexibility in working hours is a key benefit for students. The "Insight into Modern Technologies" and "Involvement in Research Projects" are significant advantages for someone interested in the intersection of technology, research, and design.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Applied Research & Technology Development (specifically within Production Systems and Design Technology) Company Size: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is a large organization, employing over 30,000 people across more than 70 institutes in Germany. The specific institute, Fraunhofer IPK, is a significant entity within this network. Founded: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft was founded in 1949. Fraunhofer IPK, based in Berlin, has a history of over 35 years, focusing on production science.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: This role is situated within the business field of Production Systems at Fraunhofer IPK, likely supporting a marketing or communication team that interfaces with research groups. The UX/UI designer would be part of a digital design function, potentially within a larger marketing or IT department.
• Operations Team Aspect 2: The student assistant will likely report to a project lead or a senior designer who oversees digital initiatives and scientific marketing content. Collaboration will extend to researchers and project managers who provide the technical content to be translated into user-friendly digital formats.
• Operations Team Aspect 3: Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, as the student will work with research departments to understand their projects, marketing teams to align with communication strategies, and potentially IT/web development teams for implementation.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data analysis in this context would involve user feedback from testing, website analytics (if applicable), and market research to inform design decisions for scientific marketing campaigns.
• Operations Process 2: Workflow planning and optimization will focus on designing intuitive user journeys for web and app applications, ensuring efficient access to information about research projects and technologies.
• Operations Process 3: While not directly focused on automation, the role supports the creation of digital tools that can streamline communication and access to information, indirectly contributing to efficiency.

Company Website: www.ipk.fraunhofer.de

📝 Enhancement Note: Fraunhofer's culture is deeply rooted in applied research, innovation, and collaboration. For a student, this means being part of a dynamic environment where scientific discovery meets practical application. The "Wissenschaftsmarketing" aspect suggests a team that bridges technical expertise with communication skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, student assistant position, providing foundational experience in digital design and scientific marketing. It's an ideal starting point for individuals interested in UX/UI design, digital marketing, or the communication of scientific and technological advancements. Reporting Structure: The student will likely report to a senior member of the marketing or digital media team, or a project manager responsible for digital communication initiatives. This provides direct mentorship and oversight. Operations Impact: The role's impact is on enhancing the user experience of digital platforms used for scientific marketing. This can indirectly influence stakeholder engagement, the perception of Fraunhofer IPK's innovation, and the accessibility of information about their research, ultimately supporting broader outreach and partnership goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Significant opportunities to deepen UX/UI design skills, learn new design tools and methodologies, and gain practical experience in a professional research setting.
• Industry Exposure: Exposure to various research fields and technologies within Fraunhofer IPK, broadening understanding of applied science and innovation.
• Portfolio Enhancement: The work directly contributes to a professional portfolio with real-world projects, showcasing capabilities to future employers in design, research, or tech industries.
• Networking: Build connections within a large research organization, potentially leading to future internship or career opportunities.
• Understanding of Scientific Communication: Develop insights into how scientific research is communicated and marketed to diverse audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is primarily skill-based and portfolio-focused, rather than a traditional hierarchical promotion. The value lies in the practical experience and learning gained within a prestigious research institution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft operates within a professional research and development environment. This role is based on-site in Berlin. Office Location(s): Berlin, Germany (specific address: 10587)

Workspace Context:

• Workspace Aspect 1: The workspace will likely be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with fellow students, designers, marketing specialists, and researchers. This fosters a dynamic learning environment.
• Workspace Aspect 2: Access to standard office equipment and potentially specialized design software and hardware will be provided. The institute will likely have robust IT infrastructure.
• Workspace Aspect 3: Opportunities for interaction will include team meetings, project discussions, and informal exchanges with colleagues, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• The work schedule is flexible and negotiable (40-80 hours/month), designed to be compatible with a student's academic commitments. This allows for dedicated time for studies while contributing meaningfully to projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on-site at a Fraunhofer institute provides a professional, research-oriented atmosphere. The flexibility in hours is a key advantage for students, allowing them to balance academic responsibilities with practical work experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Process Step 1: Initial Application Review: Submit CV and any relevant academic records or previous work samples. Focus on highlighting relevant coursework, design tool proficiency, and any prior project experience.
• Process Step 2: Screening Interview: A call with HR or a hiring manager to discuss your background, motivations, and availability. Be prepared to articulate your interest in UX/UI design and scientific marketing.
• Process Step 3: Technical/Practical Assessment: This may involve a small design task or a review of your portfolio, assessing your design skills, understanding of UX/UI principles, and proficiency with design tools.
• Process Step 4: Final Interview: Potentially with the direct supervisor or team lead to discuss project specifics, team fit, and how your skills align with the institute's needs. Questions may focus on your approach to design challenges and collaboration.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Portfolio Tip 1: Curate your portfolio to showcase projects that best demonstrate your UX/UI design process, problem-solving abilities, and visual design skills. Prioritize quality over quantity.
• Portfolio Tip 2: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the design process followed (ideation, wireframing, prototyping, testing), the tools used, and the outcomes or learnings. Use visuals effectively to illustrate your work.
• Portfolio Tip 3: Highlight any projects that involved communicating complex information or designing for specific audiences, as this is key for scientific marketing. If you have experience with prototyping tools like Adobe XD, ensure this is evident.
• Portfolio Tip 4: Prepare to walk through one or two key projects during the interview, explaining your design decisions and how you addressed user needs or project requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Challenge Preparation 1: Be ready for potential design challenges that might involve creating a quick mockup for a specific feature or re-designing a simple interface element based on provided criteria.
• Challenge Preparation 2: If given a take-home assignment, manage your time effectively to deliver a polished piece that reflects your skills and understanding of the brief. Structure your presentation clearly.
• Challenge Preparation 3: Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely. Be prepared to discuss how your design choices support the goals of scientific marketing and user engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a student role will likely focus on potential and foundational skills rather than extensive experience. Thoroughly preparing your portfolio to highlight your design process and tool proficiency is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Prototyping & Design: Adobe XD (explicitly mentioned), Figma, Sketch, or similar industry-standard tools for wireframing, prototyping, and UI design.
• Graphic Design: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for creating visual assets, mockups, and potentially presentation graphics.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not the primary focus, familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) could be beneficial for understanding user behavior on web applications, though this is likely managed by other teams.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this specific UX/UI design role, as it's focused on the front-end user experience of marketing materials rather than sales or customer relationship management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe XD is a specific requirement. Familiarity with other design tools and the broader Adobe Creative Suite will be advantageous. Understanding how design impacts user engagement on digital platforms is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Research Excellence: A core value of Fraunhofer, driving a culture of continuous learning and pushing technological boundaries.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across disciplines to achieve research and development goals, fostering a supportive environment for students.
• Applied Science & Practical Solutions: Focus on translating scientific findings into tangible applications and solutions for industry and society.
• Efficiency & Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality work and optimizing processes, even in supportive roles like this.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Fraunhofer actively promotes equality and values the diverse contributions of its employees.

Collaboration Style:

• Operations Process 1: Cross-functional integration is common, with design teams working closely with researchers, project managers, and marketing specialists to ensure designs meet project objectives and communication goals.
• Operations Process 2: A culture of constructive feedback and process review is likely, encouraging continuous improvement in design and project execution.
• Operations Process 3: Knowledge sharing and experimentation are encouraged, especially within a research-focused organization, allowing team members to learn from each other and explore new ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Fraunhofer emphasizes applied research, collaboration, and innovation. As a student, expect to be part of a dynamic team that values learning and practical contribution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Scientific Complexity: A key challenge will be to effectively translate complex scientific and technical information into understandable and engaging digital designs for a broader audience.
• Balancing Academic & Work Commitments: Effectively managing time to meet both academic requirements and project deadlines in a professional setting.
• Adapting to Research Project Cycles: Navigating the dynamic nature of research projects, which can involve shifting priorities and evolving requirements.
• Learning New Tools & Domains: Continuously learning new design tools, software features, and potentially new domains of scientific research as projects vary.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in UX/UI design, prototyping, and visual design principles through hands-on project work.
• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: While not explicitly mentioned, opportunities may arise to attend relevant internal workshops or external webinars related to design and marketing.
• Operations Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from experienced designers and marketing professionals within the Fraunhofer IPK.
• Exposure to Research: Gain a unique perspective on how cutting-edge research is developed and communicated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary growth is in practical design skills and understanding how design functions within a scientific research and marketing context. The challenges are typical for a student role in a complex environment, emphasizing adaptability and learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Question 1: "How would you approach designing a user interface for a website that needs to explain a complex scientific research project to a non-expert audience?" (Focus on user-centricity, clarity, information hierarchy, and visual engagement.)
• Operations Question 2: "Describe your experience with [specific design tool, e.g., Adobe XD]. What are its strengths for prototyping?" (Be prepared to discuss your workflow and favorite features.)
• Operations Question 3: "How do you ensure consistency in design across different digital platforms or application features?" (Discuss design systems, style guides, and component-based design.)
• Operations Question 4: "What interests you about working for Fraunhofer IPK and in scientific marketing specifically?" (Research the institute's work and connect it to your design interests.)
• Operations Question 5: "How do you handle feedback on your designs, especially constructive criticism?" (Emphasize open-mindedness, learning, and iterative improvement.)
• Operations Question 6: "Can you walk us through a project in your portfolio that you're particularly proud of? What was the challenge and how did you solve it?" (Prepare a concise narrative focusing on process and outcomes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Fraunhofer IPK's current projects and focus areas.
• Understand the role of scientific marketing in a research organization.
• Prepare to articulate how your design skills can contribute to their mission.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Presentation Strategy 1: Choose 2-3 of your strongest projects. For each, clearly state the project goal, your specific role, the design process, the challenges faced, and the final solution. Use visuals liberally.
• Presentation Strategy 2: If possible, demonstrate interactive elements of your prototypes. Explain your design choices and how they address user needs or project objectives.
• Presentation Strategy 3: Be ready to answer questions about your design process and rationale. Show enthusiasm for the work and your willingness to learn.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on showcasing your design process, problem-solving skills, and understanding of UX/UI principles, tailored to the context of scientific communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this student assistant position:

• Submit your application through the provided online portal link on the Fraunhofer jobs website.
• Concrete Preparation Step 1: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your academic background in design or informatics, any relevant project experience (academic or personal), and your proficiency with design and prototyping tools like Adobe XD. Emphasize your interest in scientific marketing and the Fraunhofer Institute.
• Concrete Preparation Step 2: Curate your digital portfolio. Select 2-3 of your best projects that demonstrate your UX/UI design process, from ideation to prototyping. Ensure interactive elements work and that you can clearly articulate your design decisions.
• Concrete Preparation Step 3: Prepare to discuss your portfolio during the interview. Practice explaining your design process, challenges, and solutions for each project. Be ready to answer questions about your skills with specific design tools.
• Concrete Preparation Step 4: Research Fraunhofer IPK and its current research areas. Understand the role of scientific marketing and how your skills in UX/UI design can contribute to showcasing their innovations effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.