Working Student: Durable PEM Electrolyzers for Sustainable Hydrogen Production

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.

As one of the oldest and largest Fraunhofer Institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT has particular expertise: by combining our various core competencies in plastics technology, chemical processes, explosives technology, safety, and energy and drive systems, it achieves groundbreaking breakthroughs in applied research. Examples can be found in lightweight construction for mobility, environmentally friendly chemistry, applications in aerospace, the military sector, and in environmental assessments, recycling, and sustainability concepts.

Discover the future of hydrogen production with Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolyzers (PEMEL)! This key technology is essential for a sustainable, decarbonized energy system. It converts renewable energy into high-purity hydrogen, which is vital for the chemical industry and energy storage.
At the Fraunhofer ICT in Pfinztal, we are working on long-term degradation tests with a 5 kW 6-cell stack to tackle the challenges of the lifespan and performance of PEMEL. As part of the "hyBit" project (Hydrogen for Bremen's Industrial Transformation), we are exploring innovative methods to better understand degradation phenomena and enhance the efficiency of these electrolyzers.
Be a part of this significant research and actively shape the future of hydrogen!

What you will do

Operation of a commercial test stand with a 5 kW 6-cell stack at Fraunhofer ICT in Pfinztal
Conducting long-term degradation tests as part of the "hyBit" project
Development of operating strategies for large PEMEL systems
Analysis of degradation phenomena and recovery of reversible effects
Application of high-frequency measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Continuous operation and monitoring of the stack during tests
Evaluation of measured data
Literature research on degradation mechanisms

What you bring to the table

Study of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
Basic knowledge of electrochemistry and initial experience with small experimental setups is a plus
Knowledge of Python is desirable
Proficient in German or English
High motivation and a Team player with strong communication skills

What you can expect

A challenging, attractive, interdisciplinary, and international work environment
An appreciative and supportive work atmosphere
Opportunities for individual development
Flexible working hours thanks to flexitime arrangements
Parking spaces, a cafeteria, and a library on campus
... and much more!

The weekly working time is upto 20 hours. 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. Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Contact specialist department:

Felix Dittmar
felix.dittmar@ict.fraunhofer.de

Contact HR:

Laura Kühn
laura.kuehn@ict.fraunhofer.de

Telefon: +49 721 4640-201

Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology ICT

www.ict.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 80861 Application Deadline:

Job Segment: Hydro, Sustainability, Chemical Engineer, Aerospace, Engineering, Energy, Research, Aviation

Apply now »