Stax is partnering with an innovative deep tech and software startup based in Munich to lead the search for an exceptional Chief Technology Officer (CTO). This is a rare opportunity to steer the technological vision of a trailblazing company revolutionizing materials development through applied AI and machine learning.
A spin-off of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and part of the UnternehmerTUM startup ecosystem, the company has already launched its first product and secured customers such as Airbus and BSH. Backed by real traction and an ambitious roadmap, the company is on a mission to fundamentally change how advanced materials are discovered and designed.
Why this role matters:
The company is taking on one of the most pressing global challenges—reducing the environmental footprint of materials development—by accelerating innovation with AI-driven solutions. As CTO, you will shape and lead this technological transformation, enabling a faster, more sustainable future.
Your impact:
As CTO, you will:
* Own and drive the overarching technology strategy, architecture, and roadmap.
* Spearhead the development and implementation of cutting-edge AI/ML algorithms for materials prediction and simulation (e.g. Inverse Design).
* Build and lead a world-class engineering and AI team.
* Be a key figure in engaging external stakeholders, from clients to investors, with clear, compelling communication of the company’s tech vision and achievements.
* Foster a culture of creativity and experimentation, empowering the team to develop and execute novel ideas with measurable impact.
What we’re looking for:
* Applied AI experience in Materials Science or Materials Simulation. This is strongly preferred over general AI experience—even in other scientific domains. We are seeking a leader with direct, hands-on insight into the unique challenges and opportunities in this space.
* A creative mind with a proven ability to generate and execute novel ideas.
* 6+ years of experience in AI/ML development, with increasing leadership responsibility; startup or scale-up experience is a strong advantage.
* Technical expertise in neural networks, with bonus points for Graph Neural Networks (GNN) or Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINN).
* A robust academic background in Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field.
* Leadership experience in software engineering and team building, with a track record of recruiting, mentoring, and inspiring technical talent.
* A confident, clear communicator who can excite diverse audiences about the company’s vision and technology.
* Strong collaboration skills with the ability to align tech decisions with business strategy.
* Fluency in English (written and spoken); German is a plus.
* Willingness to be on-site in Munich ~50% of the time (relocation support available within 3–4 months).
Nice-to-haves:
* Experience with High-Performance Computing (HPC) environments.
* Previous involvement in spin-offs or research commercialization initiatives.
What’s on offer:
* A foundational leadership role with high impact and visibility.
* Competitive compensation, including salary, (virtual) stock options, and comprehensive benefits.
* A flexible and trust-based culture with a commitment to work-life balance.
* The latest ThinkPads or MacBooks for both professional and personal use.
* Deutschlandticket (nationwide public transportation pass).
* A hybrid model combining remote flexibility with a vibrant office in Munich.
If you're a visionary technologist ready to apply your deep AI and materials science expertise to solve real-world problems, this is your moment. Help define the future of materials innovation and sustainability.
Apply now to explore this transformative opportunity with Stax. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.