Job Description

As one of the world’s largest solar 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 drive the energy transition forward with practically applicable technological solutions – through excellent research results, successful industry collaborations and spin-offs. With around 1,300 employees, we conduct research in four main areas: energy supply, energy distribution, energy storage and energy use. The state-of-the-art R&D infrastructure of Fraunhofer ISE with 22,300 m² of laboratory space enables cutting-edge research at an international level.

Be part of change

Do you want to actively help shape the energy transition and gain practical experience during your studies? With us, you can do exactly that by contributing to the investigation of the reliability and degradation phenomena of photovoltaic (PV) modules. Our “Degradation Analytics and Modelling” group analyses the degradation of photovoltaic modules and their material components.

For our “Degradation Analytics and Modelling” group, we are looking for a student assistant from 1 May 2026. Your tasks include, among others:

• You extract, analyse and evaluate material samples (e.g. polymers) from PV modules.
• You actively work with a variety of characterisation methods such as colour measurements, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, microscopy, mechanical stress tests and photography.
• Your tasks include the precise documentation of sample preparation and measurement results.
• You independently evaluate the measurement results.
• You support the preparation and editing of project reports and presentations.

What you contribute

• You are enrolled in a natural or engineering science degree programme, or a comparable field of study, preferably in the early semesters.
• You are interested in a longer-term employment of at least one year.
• Prior experience in material characterisation is helpful but not mandatory.
• You find it easy to organise your tasks independently and efficiently.
• You are proficient in software for data analysis such as MS Office, Origin or Python.
• You can express yourself confidently in German and/or 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.

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. Angelika Beinert
Phone: +49 (0)761 4588 5876

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

www.ise.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 83341