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

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft
Full-timeBerlin, Germany

📍 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: UX/UI Design, Marketing Operations, GTM Support

Date Posted: September 03, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Provide crucial support in the conceptualization, creation, and coordination of content for both web and app applications, with a strong emphasis on User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design principles.

  • Develop and refine visual assets, including mockups, interactive prototypes, and individual elements for a comprehensive design system, ensuring brand consistency and usability.

  • Contribute to the testing and validation phases of web and app applications, gathering feedback to inform design iterations and enhance user satisfaction.

  • Design and produce high-quality informational materials and presentations to effectively communicate scientific research and project outcomes to target audiences.

  • This role is integral to the Scientific Marketing efforts of the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology (IPK), bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and practical application through effective digital design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is identified as a "Studentische Hilfskraft" (Student Assistant), indicating an entry-level position primarily for students seeking practical experience. The focus on UX/UI design within "Wissenschaftsmarketing" (Science Marketing) suggests a need to translate complex scientific information into accessible and engaging digital experiences. This role will likely involve close collaboration with marketing, research, and development teams to ensure effective communication of Fraunhofer IPK's innovations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Content & Application Design:

    • Support the end-to-end process of content creation for web and app applications, from initial ideation to final implementation.
    • Conceptualize and develop user flows, wireframes, and user interface designs that align with UX best practices and scientific marketing objectives.
    • Coordinate with internal stakeholders to gather requirements and ensure content accuracy and relevance for target audiences.
  • Prototyping & Design Systems:

    • Create detailed mockups and interactive prototypes to visualize application functionality and user journeys.
    • Develop and maintain individual components and assets for the organization's design system, ensuring consistency and scalability across digital platforms.
    • Implement design system elements into web and app interfaces, adhering to established style guides and brand guidelines.
  • User Testing & Feedback Integration:

    • Assist in the planning and execution of user testing sessions for web and app applications.
    • Collect and analyze user feedback to identify usability issues and areas for improvement.
    • Integrate feedback into design revisions and iterate on solutions to enhance the overall user experience.
  • Informational Material & Presentation Design:

    • Design and produce visually appealing and informative materials, including brochures, infographics, and digital assets.
    • Create compelling presentations that effectively communicate complex scientific concepts and project achievements to diverse audiences.
    • Ensure all designed materials are consistent with Fraunhofer IPK's branding and communication standards.
  • Cross-functional Collaboration:

    • Collaborate closely with marketing teams, researchers, and developers to ensure design solutions meet project goals and user needs.

    • Participate in team meetings and contribute to brainstorming sessions for new digital initiatives.

    • Act as a liaison between technical teams and marketing to translate complex scientific information into user-friendly digital content.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design work and operational support within a scientific marketing context. The emphasis on "coordination" and "testing" suggests a need for organizational skills and attention to detail, crucial for effective GTM support in a research-intensive environment. The creation of "Einzelelementen des Designsystems" (individual elements of the design system) points to a structured approach to digital asset management and brand consistency, a key aspect of modern marketing operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Currently pursuing a degree in Design (e.g., UX/UI Design, Graphic Design, Communication Design), Computer Science, Marketing, or a related field. A strong academic record is expected.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in UX/UI design, graphic design, or a related digital design field, preferably gained through internships, academic projects, or previous student assistant roles.

Required Skills:

  • UX/UI Design Fundamentals: Solid understanding of user-centered design principles, usability heuristics, and interaction design.

  • Prototyping Tools: Proficiency in using design and prototyping software such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, or similar tools.

  • Mockup Creation: Ability to create high-fidelity mockups that accurately represent the intended user interface.

  • Design System Comprehension: Familiarity with the concept and application of design systems, including the creation and use of UI components.

  • Graphic Design Skills: Competence in graphic design principles, including layout, typography, and color theory, for creating visually appealing assets.

  • Content Coordination: Ability to organize and manage digital content, ensuring accuracy and consistency.

  • Presentation Design: Skill in creating professional and engaging presentations using tools like PowerPoint or Google Slides.

  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in German, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly.

  • Teamwork: Proven ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

  • Web Development Basics: Understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to better inform design decisions for web applications.

  • App Development Basics: Familiarity with mobile app design guidelines (iOS and Android) and development considerations.

  • User Testing Methodologies: Experience with conducting or assisting in user testing and interpreting results.

  • Scientific Marketing Knowledge: Interest in or prior exposure to marketing within a scientific or research context.

  • Agile Methodologies: Familiarity with agile development processes and their application in design workflows.

  • English Language Proficiency: Ability to understand technical documentation and collaborate in English, as is common in international research environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are heavily weighted towards practical design execution and tool proficiency. The preferred skills suggest an aspiration for candidates who can bridge the gap between design and development, and who possess an interest in the specific domain of scientific marketing. This indicates that while core design skills are paramount, a broader understanding of the digital product lifecycle and the specific industry can be a significant advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • UX/UI Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating your approach to UX/UI design challenges, from problem definition and user research to concept development, prototyping, and final UI implementation.

  • Prototyping Examples: Include interactive prototypes (links or embedded demos) that illustrate user flows, key features, and the overall user experience of digital applications.

  • Design System Contributions: If applicable, provide examples of design system components or style guides you have contributed to or developed.

  • Visual Design Assets: Present a selection of high-quality mockups, graphical elements, and other visual assets that highlight your aesthetic sense and technical proficiency.

  • Presentation Samples: Include examples of informational materials or presentations you have designed, demonstrating your ability to convey complex information clearly and engagingly.

Process Documentation:

  • Design Workflow: Clearly articulate your typical design process, from initial concept and research to iteration and final delivery, highlighting key decision points and methodologies used.

  • Tool Proficiency Documentation: Briefly describe your experience with specific design and prototyping tools, noting your level of expertise and typical applications.

  • Collaboration & Feedback Integration: Explain how you incorporate feedback from stakeholders and users into your design process to drive iterative improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role focused on design execution, the portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase aesthetic talent but also a structured approach to problem-solving. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating a clear understanding of the user-centered design process and the ability to translate user needs and business objectives into tangible digital designs. For this role, showcasing an ability to adapt complex scientific information into user-friendly interfaces will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a "Studentische Hilfskraft" (Student Assistant) at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft in Berlin, the salary is typically based on a fixed hourly rate, often aligned with university guidelines for student employees. Based on current German labor market standards for student assistants in technical and design roles in Berlin, the estimated hourly rate is between €12.00 - €16.00. This range can vary depending on the specific institute, the student's year of study, and prior relevant experience.

Benefits:

  • Practical Experience: Gain invaluable hands-on experience in UX/UI design, scientific marketing, and digital content creation within a leading research organization.

  • Professional Development: Opportunity to work with experienced professionals and learn cutting-edge design techniques and tools.

  • Networking Opportunities: Build connections within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and the broader scientific and industrial community.

  • Flexible Working Hours: Potential for flexible scheduling to accommodate academic commitments, within the overall part-time framework.

  • Exposure to Innovation: Work on projects at the forefront of technological advancement and scientific research.

  • Contribution to Impactful Projects: Play a role in communicating important scientific discoveries and innovations.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The total number of working hours will be agreed upon, typically ranging from 10 to 20 hours per week, to align with academic study requirements and operational needs. Exact daily schedules can often be arranged flexibly in coordination with the supervisor.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimations for "Studentische Hilfskraft" roles in Germany are highly regulated and often tied to public sector or university collective agreements. The range provided is an informed estimate based on typical rates for student assistants in technical fields in major German cities like Berlin. Benefits are focused on the developmental and experiential aspects, which are primary motivators for students in such roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Science & Research, Technology, Industrial Manufacturing, Marketing & Communications. Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is a globally recognized leader in applied research, with a strong focus on bridging the gap between scientific discovery and industrial application. Fraunhofer IPK specifically focuses on 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. Fraunhofer IPK, as one institute, likely comprises several hundred employees. This size offers stability, resources, and a structured environment, while specific departments can maintain a more agile and focused operational style.

Founded: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft was founded in 1949, and the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Systems and Design Technology (IPK) in Berlin has a history spanning over 35 years. This long-standing presence signifies deep expertise, established processes, and a commitment to long-term innovation.

Team Structure:

  • The UX/UI design role will likely be embedded within the marketing or communications department of Fraunhofer IPK, or potentially within a specific research division that requires strong digital outreach.

  • The team structure will involve collaboration with marketing specialists, researchers, project managers, and potentially web developers or IT support.

  • Reporting will likely be to a team lead or a senior marketing/communications manager responsible for digital presence and scientific outreach.

  • Cross-functional collaboration is a hallmark of Fraunhofer's approach, meaning this role will interact with individuals from various scientific and engineering disciplines. Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design: While this is an entry-level role, the expectation is for designs to be informed by user needs and potentially performance data from existing applications.

  • Agile & Iterative Development: Fraunhofer IPK operates in a fast-paced innovation environment, often utilizing agile principles for project management and product development, which extends to design processes.

  • Collaborative Problem-Solving: The culture encourages cross-disciplinary teamwork to tackle complex challenges, with an emphasis on sharing knowledge and best practices.

Company Website: https://www.fraunhofer.de/ and https://www.ipk.fraunhofer.de/

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft as a leading applied research organization is critical. It implies a culture that values scientific rigor, innovation, and practical application. For a UX/UI role in scientific marketing, this means translating complex technical information into user-friendly formats, requiring not just design skills but also an ability to understand and communicate scientific concepts. The large organizational structure suggests well-defined processes and potential for structured learning, while the institute-level operations can foster a more dynamic, project-oriented work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at the Entry-Level/Student Assistant stage. It is designed for individuals early in their career, typically students, to gain foundational experience in UX/UI design, digital content creation, and scientific marketing. The scope of responsibilities is focused on execution and support rather than strategic decision-making.

Reporting Structure: The student assistant will report to a designated supervisor, likely a Team Lead or Manager within the Marketing, Communications, or a specific Project team at Fraunhofer IPK. This provides direct mentorship and guidance.

Operations Impact: While not directly involved in core revenue operations or sales operations, this role significantly impacts the perception and reach of Fraunhofer IPK's scientific and technological output. Effective UX/UI design and well-crafted marketing materials are crucial for:

  • Attracting Talent: Presenting a modern and professional image to potential employees.

  • Securing Funding & Partnerships: Communicating research value and potential to industry partners and funding bodies.

  • Disseminating Knowledge: Making complex research accessible to a wider audience, including potential collaborators and the public.

  • Enhancing User Engagement: Ensuring that digital platforms (websites, apps) are intuitive and effective for users seeking information.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in specific areas of UX/UI design, such as interaction design, visual design, user research, or design systems.

  • Industry Knowledge: Gain deep insights into scientific marketing, the R&D landscape, and the application of technology in various industries.

  • Portfolio Development: Build a robust portfolio with tangible project examples that can serve as a strong foundation for future roles in design, marketing, or product development.

  • Networking: Connect with professionals in research, technology, and marketing, opening doors for future career opportunities within or beyond Fraunhofer.

  • Potential for Further Employment: Successful performance as a student assistant may lead to opportunities for further roles within Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, such as internships, thesis projects, or even full-time positions upon graduation, depending on business needs and individual development.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a student role, the primary growth path is skill development and portfolio building. The "operations impact" is viewed through the lens of effective communication and user engagement, which indirectly supports the business objectives of a research institution. The growth opportunities are framed around learning and practical application, preparing the student for future roles in design or marketing-related fields.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position at a Fraunhofer Institute in Berlin. The work environment will be professional and research-oriented, likely within a modern office setting equipped with the necessary tools for design and collaboration.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Berlin, Germany (specific address: 10587). This location offers access to a vibrant tech and research ecosystem. Specific details about the institute's facilities and accessibility would need to be confirmed.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Spaces: Expect access to meeting rooms and potentially shared workspaces conducive to team discussions and brainstorming sessions.

  • Design Tools & Technology: The workspace will be equipped with computers, software licenses for design tools (e.g., Figma, Adobe Suite), and internet access necessary for fulfilling job duties.

  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design peers, marketing colleagues, and researchers, fostering a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere. The on-site nature facilitates spontaneous discussions and team cohesion.

Work Schedule: The working hours are part-time, typically between 10-20 hours per week. The schedule is often flexible, allowing students to balance their academic responsibilities with work. However, on-site presence is required, meaning specific days and times will need to be coordinated with the supervisor to ensure team integration and project continuity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement for a student assistant role in a research institute emphasizes the importance of direct team collaboration, mentorship, and immersion in the professional environment. While flexibility is a key benefit for students, the need for physical presence suggests that hands-on training, direct supervision, and participation in in-person team activities are priorities for the hiring organization.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of applications, focusing on CV, cover letter (if required), and portfolio. Candidates with strong visual design skills and a relevant academic background will be shortlisted.

  • Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which will likely include a presentation of their portfolio. This is an opportunity to discuss their design process, showcase their best work, and explain their approach to UX/UI challenges.

  • Technical/Skills Assessment: The interview may include specific questions about design principles, tools, and problem-solving scenarios related to UX/UI design and scientific marketing.

  • Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity for the candidate to meet potential team members and for the hiring team to assess cultural fit, enthusiasm, and communication skills.

  • Final Decision: Based on a holistic evaluation of skills, portfolio, interview performance, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your UX/UI skills, design process, and ability to create engaging digital content. Prioritize quality over quantity.

  • Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the methodology used, your design decisions (and the rationale behind them), and the outcome. Visual aids like wireframes, user flows, and mockups are essential.

  • Highlight Scientific Marketing Relevance: If possible, include projects that touch upon communicating technical or scientific information, demonstrating your ability to adapt complex subjects for digital platforms.

  • Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific design tools and explain how you leverage them to achieve design goals.

  • Prepare for Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and engagingly. Be ready to answer questions about your work and design choices.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges or questions about how you would approach a specific UX/UI problem within a scientific marketing context (e.g., "How would you design a landing page to explain a new research breakthrough?").

  • Tool Familiarity: Brush up on the core functionalities of common design tools like Figma or Adobe XD.

  • Understanding of Fraunhofer IPK: Research the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and Fraunhofer IPK's areas of research and recent projects to understand their mission and communication needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a practical demonstration of skills through a portfolio review. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design thinking and process. Understanding the specific context of Fraunhofer IPK and scientific marketing will be crucial for tailoring responses and showcasing relevant interest and capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • UX/UI Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision. Proficiency in at least one of these is essential.

  • Graphic Design & Asset Creation: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator), Affinity Designer.

  • Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Basic Web Analytics: Familiarity with concepts of web analytics (e.g., Google Analytics) to understand user behavior on web applications, though direct use might be limited for this role.

  • User Feedback Tools: Experience with tools for collecting and analyzing user feedback (e.g., surveys, usability testing platforms).

CRM & Automation:

  • Content Management Systems (CMS): Familiarity with CMS platforms like WordPress may be beneficial for content integration into websites.

  • Project Management Tools: Experience with tools like Jira, Asana, or Trello for task management and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design execution tools. While direct involvement with CRM or advanced automation might not be required, an understanding of how design integrates with these systems (e.g., through CMS or analytics) is valuable. The emphasis is on tools that enable the creation of effective user interfaces and marketing collateral.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Excellence in Research & Application: A core value of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is the pursuit of scientific excellence and its practical application, which translates to a commitment to high-quality work in all supporting functions, including marketing and design.

  • Innovation & Future Orientation: The organization is driven by developing solutions for future challenges. This fosters a culture of creativity, forward-thinking, and continuous improvement.

  • Collaboration & Interdisciplinarity: Fraunhofer emphasizes teamwork across diverse scientific and technical fields. This promotes an environment where different perspectives are valued and integrated to achieve common goals.

  • Customer/Stakeholder Focus: While a research institution, Fraunhofer serves industry and society. This translates to a focus on understanding and meeting the needs of its partners and the public through effective communication and applied solutions.

  • Integrity & Reliability: As a public research organization, there is a strong emphasis on ethical conduct, transparency, and the reliable delivery of results and services.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: Expect to collaborate closely with individuals from various departments, including researchers, engineers, and marketing professionals, requiring clear communication and an ability to bridge technical and non-technical gaps.

  • Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages the sharing of knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned. This can manifest through team meetings, workshops, and informal discussions.

  • Constructive Feedback: An environment where feedback is actively sought and given to improve processes and outcomes. Designers are expected to be open to feedback on their work and to provide constructive input to others.

  • Project-Oriented: Work is often organized around specific research projects, requiring flexibility and adaptability to project timelines and evolving requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Fraunhofer is deeply rooted in its mission of applied research. This means that while creativity and innovation are paramount, they are always grounded in practical application and scientific rigor. For a student assistant, understanding and aligning with these values, particularly collaboration and a focus on impactful outcomes, will be key to success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Translating Complex Science: A primary challenge will be taking highly technical or scientific information and translating it into clear, engaging, and user-friendly designs for web and app applications, as well as marketing materials.

  • Balancing Academic and Work Commitments: As a student assistant, managing time effectively to meet both academic deadlines and work responsibilities will be crucial.

  • Navigating a Large Organization: Understanding the structure and communication channels within a large research organization like Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft can be complex.

  • Adhering to Brand and Technical Standards: Ensuring all designs comply with Fraunhofer's branding guidelines, accessibility standards, and any technical constraints of the platforms.

  • Rapidly Evolving Technologies: Staying current with the latest UX/UI design trends, tools, and best practices in a fast-paced digital environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • UX/UI Skill Enhancement: Deepen practical skills in wireframing, prototyping, user interface design, and potentially user research through hands-on project work.

  • Scientific Communication: Develop a strong understanding of how to effectively communicate scientific and technological concepts to diverse audiences through digital media.

  • Industry Exposure: Gain insights into the world of applied research, innovation, and scientific marketing within a leading German research institution.

  • Tool Mastery: Become proficient in industry-standard design and prototyping tools.

  • Portfolio Building: Create a substantial portfolio of professional work that will be a significant asset for future career applications in design or related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the unique context of working in scientific marketing. The growth opportunities are framed around skill acquisition and professional development, specifically tailored to a student's career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Design Process: "Walk me through your process for designing a new feature for a web application, from initial concept to final mockups." (Focus on user-centered approach, research, iteration, and tool usage).

  • Scientific Communication: "Imagine you need to design an infographic explaining a complex physics experiment for a general audience. What key elements would you include, and how would you approach the design?" (Assess ability to simplify complex topics visually).

  • Tool Proficiency: "Describe a project where you used Figma/Adobe XD extensively. What were some of the challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?" (Gauge practical experience with design tools).

  • Collaboration: "How do you handle constructive criticism or differing opinions on your designs from team members or supervisors?" (Evaluate teamwork and receptiveness to feedback).

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, and specifically in UX/UI design for scientific marketing?" (Demonstrate genuine interest in the organization and the role's specific context).

  • Understanding Fraunhofer: "What do you know about Fraunhofer IPK's research areas, and how do you see UX/UI design contributing to their mission?" (Show that you've done your research).

  • Team Fit: "How do you envision your role contributing to a research-focused marketing team?" (Align your skills with the team's objectives).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the impact. Focus on the "why" behind your design decisions.

  • Highlight Your Role: Be specific about your contributions, especially if it was a group project.

  • Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (wireframes, mockups, prototypes) to illustrate your points effectively.

  • Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to fit within the allocated time and maintain the interviewer's interest.

  • Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and potential alternative solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skills but also an understanding of the scientific context and the ability to communicate complex information. Being able to articulate one's design process and rationale clearly is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided application link on the Fraunhofer jobs portal.

  • Tailor your CV and Cover Letter: Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any prior experience in design, marketing, or research, specifically mentioning any work with UX/UI, content creation, or presentation design.

  • Curate your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio showcases 2-3 strong UX/UI design case studies, interactive prototypes, and examples of visual design or presentation work. Prioritize projects that demonstrate your ability to translate information visually.

  • Prepare your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio confidently, focusing on your design process, rationale, and the outcomes of your projects. Be ready to discuss your experience with relevant design tools.

  • Research Fraunhofer IPK: Familiarize yourself with the institute's research areas, current projects, and mission to articulate your interest and how your skills align with their scientific marketing needs.

⚠️ 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.


Application Requirements

The role requires a student assistant with a focus on UX/UI design and content creation. Candidates should be capable of designing and implementing informational materials and presentations.