Thesis "Simulation of reaction and separation processes in the Power-to-Liquids context"

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros.

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg is the largest solar research institute in Europe. Our around 1,400 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.

For our group "Synthesis Products: Separation and Production Technologies" we are looking for a student assistant starting on 01.04.2025, with the opportunity to write a Bachelor's or Master's thesis on the topic "Simulation of reaction and separation processes in the Power-to-Liquids context".

Would you like to play an active role in shaping the energy transition and gain practical experience during your studies? With us, you will work in a dynamic and motivated team on a forward-looking topic in the field of renewable energies. Our "Sustainable Synthesis Products" department at Fraunhofer ISE deals with the power-to-liquids concept, i.e., the conversion of "green" hydrogen from renewable electricity into sustainable energy carriers, chemicals, and fuels. In addition to efficient transportation and storage properties, liquid energy carriers also offer the opportunity to provide an alternative to fossil fuels in sectors that rely on the use of carbon-based fuels. For the energy-efficient and economical production of sustainable synthesis products, innovative process concepts based on the raw materials CO2 and hydrogen are also investigated in our group using simulations. Current simulation software such as Aspen Plus or Matlab/Simulink is used for this purpose.

What you will do

You will work in a dynamic team of students and engineers.
Your tasks will initially include literature research and familiarization with the required reaction and process engineering aspects.
You will familiarize yourself with the Aspen Plus or Matlab software.
You will model various process engineering processes (e.g. reaction, distillation, absorption) for the production of hydrogen carriers or sustainable fuels.
You evaluate the investigated processes on the basis of your simulation results
Optionally, you will also consider economic aspects.
You will present your results to our group and summarize them in your thesis.

What you bring to the table

You are studying in the field of process engineering, chemical engineering, or a comparable technical or scientific field
You have knowledge in the field of process engineering, ideally in thermodynamics and reaction engineering.
Experience with the simulation of chemical processes is an advantage but not required.
You work independently and with commitment.
You are experienced in using Microsoft Office.
You can express yourself confidently in German or English.

What you can expect

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, such as the hiking day.

In addition to the thesis, a contract as a research assistant is agreed. 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.

Have we piqued your interest? Then apply online now with your detailed application documents (including cover letter, CV, reference/performance record). We look forward to getting to know you!

Questions about this position will be answered by:
Malte Gierse

Phone: +49 761 4588-2540

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

www.ise.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 76659

Job Segment: Chemical Research, Sustainability, R&D Engineer, Research Assistant, Chemical Engineer, Engineering, Energy, Research

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