Master Thesis: Process development for the catalytic synthesis of 2,5-Dimethylfuran (DMF)

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.

CHANGE STARTS WITH US.

At the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB, research and development of sustainable processes, technologies, and products for a healthy and green future are the focus. Our research topics are diverse, ranging from chemical engineering to the design of sustainable production processes and biotechnology. We create innovations and continuously turn sustainability goals into reality. Are you in?

What you will do

Your curiosity leads you into the exciting world of heterogeneous catalytic processes. Here, you will significantly contribute to the development of the catalytic synthesis of 2,5-Dimethylfuran (DMF) and accompany practical research projects in a dynamic environment.

2,5-Dimethylfuran (DMF) is increasingly valued as a biofuel additive and a valuable chemical building block. Its production typically occurs in two steps: First, biomass is converted into Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), followed by the hydrogenolysis of HMF to DMF. This project focuses on the heterogeneous catalytic hydrogenolysis reaction of HMF to DMF in a batch reactor. A deep understanding of reaction kinetics and systematic process optimizations are crucial for improving technological readiness. A key challenge lies in maintaining a high yield of DMF during the scale-up of the reaction while also considering production costs and economic feasibility.

You will develop a procedure and a setup for the upscaling of catalyst synthesis
Conduct kinetic studies on the hydrogenolysis of HMF to DMF in a batch reactor
Optimize reaction conditions to maximize the yield of DMF while employing a systematic Design of Experiments (DOE) approach for scaling up the reaction
By utilizing analytical techniques such as GC and HPLC, you will evaluate your experimental results and present them in a scientific format
Additionally, you will conduct literature research and scale lab tests to gain valuable insights into the separation and purification processes for the product DMF

What you bring to the table

You are a student in chemical engineering, chemistry, process engineering or a comparable field of study
You have solid knowledge in catalysis and reaction kinetics
Laboratory experience in the field of heterogeneous catalytic reactions is an advantage
Good skills in German or English

What you can expect

Top research in a wide variety of pioneering flagship projects that advance society and the economy – and yourself
The opportunity to contribute your own ideas as part of a strong team and find solutions to pressing future questions
A tolerant environment with an open error culture and the assurance of getting support at any time.
State-of-the-art equipment
Cafeteria on campus with daily meal offerings

Throughout this project, you will have the opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into the demonstration of an entire catalytic chemical production process, including catalyst synthesis, catalytic batch reaction testing, and downstream purification. By the end of your thesis, you can expect to enhance your knowledge and expertise in key areas such as reaction kinetics, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication skills.

We offer you an environment that gives you the opportunity to gain a broad spectrum of experience in a short period of time by working on interesting and varied industrial projects with our partners in various industries.
In our teams, creative approaches to solutions are combined with an economic and structured approach.

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

If you have any questions about the recruiting process, please contact:

funktionspostfach.bewerber.straubing@igb.fraunhofer.de

Phone +49 9421 9380-1070

Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB

www.igb.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 80712 Application Deadline: 09/05/2025

Job Segment: Chemical Research, Chemical Engineer, R&D Engineer, Biology, Biotech, Engineering, Science

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