Student Assistant "Production and Characterization of MEAs for PEM and AEM Electrolysis"

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg is the largest solar research institute in Europe. Our around 1400 employees work for a sustainable economical safe and socially fair energy supply system based on renewable energies. We contribute to this with our research priorities of energy supply energy distribution energy storage and energy use. Through outstanding research results successful industrial projects spin-off companies and global cooperation we shape the sustainable transformation of the energy system.

Be part of change

Would you like to actively help shape the energy transition and gain hands-on experience during your studiesWith us you will help turn this goal into our research field we investigate the entire production process of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for electrolyzers: from producing the catalyst ink through the printing process of the catalyst layers the transfer of the layers onto the membrane all the way to the electrochemical and topographical characterization of the MEAs produced. The MEA is the heart of an this component electrical energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of hydrogen new projects we develop MEAs based on PFAS-free materials for PEM electrolysis as well as MEAs for AEM electrolysis. You support us along the entire production value chain.

To support our Electrolysis group we are looking for a student assistant to start as soon as possible. Alternatively the position can be offered as a voluntary or mandatory internship. We aim for a long-term working relationship. Afterwards there is the possibility to write a Bachelors or Masters thesis with us. Your tasks include among other things:

• You contribute to R&D projects on the fabrication and characterization of MEAs.
• You learn the entire production process and support us in planning preparing and conducting various experiments.
• Your tasks include investigating different mixing processes and chemicals for producing catalyst inks.
• You investigate printing processes such as screen printing or slot-die coating as well as various drying methods when printing catalyst inks to form catalyst layers.
• You examine the transfer of the catalyst layers onto the membrane using different hot-press systems.
• You analyze the topography of the produced layers using high-resolution microscopes including laser-scanning SEM-EDX or XRF microscopes.
• You learn to independently perform electrochemical measurements of MEAs on the test stand and to document and scientifically analyze the resulting data (e.g. polarization curves impedance spectra).
• You independently conduct literature research document your work and present your results within the team.

What you contribute

• You are an enrolled student in a technical or natural science discipline.
• You have a basic technical understanding of hydrogen technologies production engineering process engineering chemistry and materials science.
• Ideally you have already gained experience in the laboratory.
• You are comfortable using MS Office and processing scientific data in Origin Python or Excel.
• You can quickly and independently familiarize yourself with new subject areas.
• It is important to you to contribute to your team and achieve goals together in interdisciplinary collaboration.
• You plan and complete scientific tasks independently and to a high standard.
• You independently seek and find solutions to unexpected problems.
• You can express yourself confidently in both German and English (at least at level B2).

What we offer

• Exclusive insight: By working together with the scientists in our work unit you will gain an insight into everyday research and development at a research institute.
• Laboratory infrastructure: At Fraunhofer ISE we work with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment so that research projects can be carried out using the latest technology.
• Research mix: We give you the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory and thus apply and expand your knowledge from your studies.
• Supervision: You will be supervised in your work by scientists and receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: You will gain experience of working in a team by interacting with academic and student staff and will be able to contribute the experience you have already gained.
• Working hours and location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adapt your working hours to your needs by arrangement and to work from home from time to time.
• Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and make room for diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

Remuneration is based on the level of your university degree.

We value and promote the diversity of our employees skills and therefore welcome all applications regardless of age gender nationality ethnic and social origin religion ideology disability sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Ready for change Apply now with your detailed application documents (including CV cover letter employment references/certificates and/or academic transcript) and make a difference! After we receive your online application you will automatically receive a confirmation of receipt. We will then contact you as soon as possible to let you know the next steps.

Questions about this position will be answered by:
Jerónimo Horstmann de la Viña
Phone: 49 (0)
E-Mail:

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

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Requisition Number: 82664