Master's thesis "MEA Development for Direct Air Capture-to-Ethylene Conversion"

We want an earth that is worth living on. Our applied research in Circular Economy, Carbon Management, Green Hydrogen and Local Energy Systems makes concrete contributions to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. As an institute of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, we show how to not only master challenges, but grow with them. We push boundaries, think ahead and shape the future with applied research. Diverse perspectives and approaches strengthen creativity and innovation in our scientific work.

Would you like to help us shape a sustainable world? We are looking for reinforcement! 

The department "Power-to-Chemicals" develops scalable electrochemical processes for converting gaseous CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels, with a strong focus on zero-gap MEA electrolyzers operated under industrially relevant conditions. Within the Air2Chem project, capture is directly coupled with CO2 electrolysis, integrating capture and conversion into a single process chain that turns atmospheric CO2 into ethylene as a key platform chemical for the chemical industry.

 

Be part of change

• Fabrication of electrodes membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) using techniques such as spray and slot-die coating
• Physicochemical and electrochemical characterization of catalyst layers and electrodes
• Operation of zero-gap carbon capture electrolyzer cells under varying conditions and CO2 capture electrolyte composition
• Performance evaluation of electrolyzers across different sizes 25 vs 300 vs 3000 cm²
• Data analysis, documentation, and presentation of results in internal meetings and scientific contexts

 

What you contribute

• Ongoing Master's studies in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related discipline
• Solid background in electrochemistry and/or heterogeneous catalysis
• Basic knowledge with material characterization techniques (SEM, XRD, XPS, contact angle, porosimetry)
• Ideally, prior experience with electrode fabrication, MEA assembly, or fuel cell/electrolyzer testing, as well as with Python, Origin, or similar tools for data analysis and visualization
• Hands-on mindset and genuine interest in experimental laboratory work

 

What we offer

We are committed to creating an inspiring working environment in which all employees can develop. To this end, we promote and value the uniqueness of each person and create a culture of respect, openness and appreciation in which everyone is welcome:

• Teamwork at eye level: an open-minded team in which you can contribute your own ideas. New Work, diversity and inclusion as well as cooperative teamwork are central components of our culture.
• Theory meets practice: The opportunity to combine your knowledge from your studies with practical experience at the interface between business and science.
• Flex work: Your studies have priority - we offer you flexible working hours that adapt to your everyday study routine, as well as the opportunity to combine mobile working and on-site work by arrangement with the team.
• Students@UMSICHT: Comprehensive onboarding, good support and networking opportunities as well as versatile support for your career development through training and keynote speeches.
• Health & well-being: Health offers for a good balance in everyday life.
• You can find even more attractive benefits here: Fraunhofer UMSICHT as an employer

 

Remuneration according to the general works agreement for employing assistant staff.

Application:

 

�� Interested? Apply online now via our career portal and join the Fraunhofer UMSICHT team! We look forward to getting to know you. Please submit at least the following documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• Current certificate of enrollment
• Current transcript of records
• Bachelor's degree certificate

 

�� Diversity & equal opportunities:

 

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. S