Internship: Analytical investigation of pyrolysis products

The Sulzbach-Rosenberg branch of the Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety and Energy Technology Fraunhofer UMSICHT (www.umsicht-suro.fraunhofer.de) develops process engineering solutions in the field of carbon conversion (next-generation biofuels, recycling technologies for plastics and composite materials, biochar), low-emission combustion and firing technology, and the provision and storage of process heat. It also has expertise in waste and resource strategies and life cycle assessment (LCA). With a focus on process engineering and plant construction, it supports clients from the project idea through pilot plants and demonstrators to market launch.

Would you like to help us create a sustainable world? We are looking for new talent!

Plastic waste contains a variety of valuable and critical raw materials that have often been insufficiently recycled or even lost completely. They often end up in thermal recycling and are thus removed from the economic cycle. Through chemical recycling, especially with the help of a thermochemical process, plastic waste can be recycled as raw material and reused in the chemical industry, thereby conserving fossil raw materials. The Advanced Carbon Conversion Technologies department at the Fraunhofer UMSICHT Institute researches and develops innovative technical solutions to make these raw materials available again for the manufacture of new products. In this way, you will also be making a valuable contribution to conserving our natural resources and avoiding the environmental impact associated with their extraction and waste disposal.

During the internship, you will gain insights into the European recycling industry, acquire new knowledge or deepen your existing knowledge of chemical analysis, and gain extensive experience in scientific and project-related work.

Be part of change

• Analysis and characterization of solid and liquid samples


• Sample preparation


• Maintenance and calibration of analytical instruments


• Monitoring and procurement of consumables


• Maintaining databases

What you contribute

You are studying chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, process engineering, or a comparable subject, and ideally have some initial experience in analytics. Essential for working at our company are an independent approach to work, a hands-on mentality, strong communication skills, good English skills, and confidence in using computer applications. We require enthusiasm and excitement for our topics.

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 with a future-proof employer 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

The weekly working time is 39 hours. This position is also available on a part-time basis. 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. Our tasks are diverse and adaptable – for applicants with disabilities, we work together to find solutions that best promote their abilities. Remuneration according to the federal government guidelines for intern salaries.

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. 

Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.

If you have any questions about this position, please contact:

Dr. Volodymyr Palchyk
phone: +49 (0) 9661 8155-480

Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT 

​" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.umsicht-suro.fraunhofer.de