Master’s Thesis Technology Scouting - Staying Ahead of the Curve (d/f/m)

Job Description:

In order to support the Flight Physics Capabilities Hamburg Team, Airbus Operations is looking for a

Master student (d/f/m), 
Technology Scouting - Staying Ahead of the Curve

To maintain our competitive edge, our team must constantly scout the market—both inside and outside Airbus—for emerging technologies and trends. This "techno watch" activity can be done using a variety of different methodologies.

We are looking for a motivated Master's student to design and establish a comprehensive framework for our technology scouting activities. The goal of this thesis is to create a sustainable and possibly automatable process that allows us to efficiently identify, analyze, manage, and disseminate information about key technologies. You will apply this framework to key domains of flight physics to demonstrate its viability. Your work will form the strategic backbone of how we track innovation and will directly influence the technological direction of the Flight Physics department.

• Location: Hamburg

• Start:  ab April 2026

• Duration: 6 months

Your location
You will be working at the largest production site for civil aircraft situated in Hamburg. Its location on the southern banks of the river Elbe includes the option to commute by ferry. Experience the special flair of Hamburg in your spare time where vibrant cosmopolitan culture meets nautic legacy.

Your benefits

• Work-life balance with a 35-hour week (flexitime).

• International environment with the opportunity to network globally.

• Work with modern/diversified technologies.

• At Airbus, we see you as a valuable team member and you are not hired to brew coffee, instead you are in close contact with the interfaces and are part of our weekly team meetings.

• Opportunity to participate in the Generation Airbus Community to expand your own network.

Your tasks and responsibilities

• Analyze the Status Quo: Investigate and document the current, informal technology watch practices within and outside Airbus.

• Benchmark Methodologies: Conduct a literature and market review of established methods and best practices for technology scouting and forecasting.

• Evaluate Tools & Services: Research and compare available software tools and paid services for technology scouting, competitor analysis, and knowledge management.

• Develop the Framework: Design a holistic framework that defines the process for scouting, knowledge management, and effective distribution of insights to the Flight Physics community.

• Introduce a Solution: Propose and potentially implement a pilot process and tool based on your framework.

• Measure Performance: Define Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness and impact of the new technology scouting process.

• Summarize Findings: Write a comprehensive Master's Thesis detailing your research, the proposed framework, and its potential implementation.

Desired skills and qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a Master's program in a relevant field such as Industrial Engineering, Technology Management, Business Informatics, Strategic Management, or Aerospace Engineering.

• Excellent analytical and conceptual skills with a structured, methodical approach.

• A high degree of independence, curiosity, and a proactive mindset.

• Strong interest in technology trends and innovation management.

• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.

• First-hand experience in technology scouting or knowledge management.

• Familiarity with innovation frameworks and strategic management concepts.

• Experience with knowledge management or database tools.

Please upload the following documents: cover letter, CV, relevant transcripts, enrollment certificate. 

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This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

Airbus Operations GmbH

Employment Type:

Final-year Thesis

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Experience Level:

Student

Job Family:

Support to Management <JF-FA-ES>

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