Apply now »
City:  Freiburg
Date:  Oct 19, 2026

Thesis "Stabilization Procedures for PV Modules"

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) is one of the world's leading organizations for application-oriented research. 74 institutes develop pioneering technologies for our economy and society – more precisely: 30 000 people from technology, science, administration and IT. They know: Anyone who comes to Fraunhofer wants to and can make a difference. For themselves, for us and for the markets of today and tomorrow.

As one of the world's largest solar energy research institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE makes a significant contribution to a sustainable, economical, secure, and socially equitable energy supply worldwide. Our goal is to advance the energy transition by providing concrete, implementable technological solutions through excellent research results, successful industrial collaborations, and spin-offs. To this end, our ~1,300 employees conduct research in four key areas: energy supply, energy distribution, energy storage, and energy utilization. Fraunhofer ISE's state-of-the-art R&D infrastructure, with 22,300 m² of laboratory space, enables cutting-edge research at an international level.

 

Be part of change

Would you like to actively contribute to the energy transition and gain valuable hands-on experience during your studies? Join us and help turn this vision into reality.

You will support our "Degradation Analysis and Modelling" group, which focuses on evaluating the performance and reliability of the latest photovoltaic modules. As part of the thesis, efficient stabilization procedures will be developed for commercial PV modules incorporating emerging cell technologies, both before and after accelerated aging tests.

For our group "Degradation Analysis and Modelling", we are looking for a student assistant starting on January 16, 2027, with the opportunity to complete a Bachelor's or Master's thesis. Your tasks will include:

  • You subject PV modules to aging tests and stabilization procedures using climate chambers and solar simulators.
  • You characterize module behavior by measuring and analyzing current-voltage curves during and after stabilization.
  • You evaluate experimental results and derive efficient best practices for module stabilization.

 

What you contribute

  • You are enrolled as a student in physics, engineering, or a comparable field of study.
  • Previous knowledge of accelerated aging tests or electrical measurements on PV modules is an advantage, but not a requirement.
  • You have strong interpersonal skills and find it easy to build and maintain trusting professional relationships.
  • You work independently, systematically, and with a high level of commitment.
  • You are able to plan upcoming tasks proactively, set priorities, and manage your time effectively.
  • You have good communication skills in both German and English.

 

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. In addition to the thesis, a contract as a student 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.  

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: 
Dr. Paul Gebhardt 
+49 761 4588-5042

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE 

www.ise.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 85954                

 


Job Segment: R&D Engineer, Sustainability, R&D, Work from Home, Engineering, Energy, Research, Contract

Apply now »