Job Description

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

Fraunhofer ISE has been working in the field of sustainable synthesis products for over 25 years. We cover the entire process chain of sustainable synthesis products: from green hydrogen, the direct air capture of CO2 and the synthesis of Power-to-X (PtX) products (such as ammonia, dimethyl ether, methanol) to conversion and end applications. We develop and optimize processes and reactor concepts for the production of PtX products and for thermochemical hydrogen production from PtX products. We develop, test and characterize tailor-made catalysts.

The use of ammonia (NH₃) as a hydrogen carrier in the future energy system requires the efficient release of hydrogen. The focus of this thesis is the development of bimetallic catalysts based on nitrogen-doped carbon supports, with the aim of improving catalytic activity and long-term stability in ammonia reforming.

For our group "Synthesis Products: Application and Characterization", we are looking for a student assistant starting on 01.09.2026, with the opportunity to write a master’s thesis, with the following tasks:

• You synthesize and characterize bimetallic catalysts.
• You independently conduct performance tests in diluted and pure ammonia.
• You investigate the influence of water in ammonia on the performance tests.
• You analyze experimental measurement data, interpret them, and carefully document your results.
• You discuss and summarize your results as part of your thesis.

What you contribute

• You are studying chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• You have an interest in catalytic research and experimental laboratory work.
• You have basic knowledge of the synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts.
• Initial laboratory experience with analytical characterization methods such as physisorption, chemisorption, XRD, or XPS is an advantage.
• You plan and complete your tasks independently, with commitment and a strong focus on quality.
• You communicate clearly, listen attentively, and impress with your presentation skills and confident manner.
• Knowledge of data analysis software such as OriginLab or Excel is an advantage, but not required.
• You have very good English skills, both written and spoken.

What we offer

• Exclusive insights: By working together with the scientists in our department, you will gain insights into the day-to-day research and development work at a research institute.
• Laboratory infrastructure: At Fraunhofer ISE, we work with state-of-the-art equipment and devices so that research projects can be carried out using the latest technology.
• Research mix: You will have the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory, thus applying and expanding the knowledge you gained during your studies.
• Supervision: You will be supervised by scientists during your work and receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: You will gain experience in working in a team with our scientific and student staff and can contribute the experience you have already gained.
• Working hours and location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adjust your working hours to your needs and to occasionally work from home.
• Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and embrace diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

In addition to the thesis, a contract as a research assistant will be arranged. The remuneration for research assistants depends on the level of university education attained. The monthly workload is 60 hours.

We value and promote the diversity of skills among our employees and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion, ideology, disability, and sexualorientation and identity. Severely disabled persons will be given preference in case of equal qualification.

Ready for a change? Then apply now with your compelling application documents (including CV, cover letter, and references/performance records) and make a difference! After your online application is received, you will receive an automatic acknowledgment. We will get back to you as soon as possible to tell you how the process continues.

Questions about this position will be answered by:
Miranda Guci
miranda.guci@ise.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

www.ise.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 85246