Student research assistant (m/f/d) raw material demand for the energy transition

The Fraunhofer ISI in Karlsruhe is a globally recognized center of excellence in innovation research. Through the different focal points of our seven Competence Centers, we work on central issues of innovation dynamics and system transformation from an interdisciplinary and holistic perspective. The Institute offers unique opportunities for the application and development of new approaches in innovation research. It has close links to numerous universities and research institutions in Germany and abroad. Thanks to our leading position in theory- and evidence-based consulting, our employees have unique access to national and international stakeholders in politics and business

The position is in the Competence Center “Sustainability and Infrastructure Systems” and is available at the earliest opportunity.

Background:

To combat climate change, it is essential to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases. Decarbonization of the energy sector is a major lever on the path to a climate-neutral society. One prerequisite for a successful energy transition is the comprehensive transformation of the energy system by expanding energy infrastructure consisting of generators, storage facilities and the grid. Deploying different technologies such as wind and solar power or battery storage is only possible if the raw materials required to produce these installations are available (e.g., rare earths, silicon, and cobalt).

Fraunhofer ISI has been commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) to optimize transformation paths of the European energy system in terms of system costs and security of supply in cooperation with four national partner organizations. The project aims at identifying a technology mix for the energy system that achieves the decarbonization targets by 2050 at minimum cost and with minimum material supply risks.

What You Will Do

To estimate the future demand for raw materials for the energy transition in continental Europe, we need help with developing demand scenarios and material flow models for different technology raw materials. You will research industrial processes in mining, industrial processing and recycling, and the different applications of raw materials at a global level. You will be working directly with the project team at Fraunhofer ISI on this topic and in terms of methodology. If you are interested and have enough work hours available, you could also aim at developing a new material flow model using Vensim software. If needed, you will take on other scientific tasks in the project.

If you are interested, it may be possible to do a (perhaps subsequent) Master thesis on this topic.

What You Bring To The Table

• Proof of enrollment at a university or university of applied sciences
• Basic knowledge of German and good English
• Sound knowledge and experience with scientific data research
• Ideally, prior knowledge of mass balancing
• Interest in technical aspects of raw material use and the energy transition
• Ability to work independently and organize yourself efficiently
• Friendly and confident manner
  
  
  

What You Can Expect

• Interdisciplinarity: Employees from a wide range of disciplines work together in our project teams. In this way, different approaches, ways of thinking and methods are brought in and our projects are handled in an interdisciplinary manner.
• Working in a team: With us, you work independently in motivated teams. Our flat management hierarchy supports the independent work of our employees.
• Development and advancement opportunities, which may also lead to a thesis.
• Flexibility: Fraunhofer ISI offers flexible working hours that are tailored to study requirements.
• Equal opportunities and diversity: Different experiences drive creative ideas and concepts and thus innovation. Diversity is therefore an enrichment for working at Fraunhofer. Our teams are made up of as many different genders, ages, cultures and disciplines as possible
  
  
  

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

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.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

Dr. Michaela Schicho

[email protected]

Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI

www.isi.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 77641 Application Deadline: 01/16/2025