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
You wish to play an active role in shaping the energy transformation and be part of a highly motivated team? Then join us in advancing agrivoltaics!
Under the term agrivoltaics, our group investigates a new form of photovoltaic systems that enables agricultural use of the same land area in addition to electricity generation. In doing so, we aim primarily to promote the resource-efficient use of agricultural land and to unlock expansion potential for renewable energy sources. With us, you will contribute to achieving this goal. Together, we conduct research on topics such as the shade tolerance of crops, intelligent light management, synergy effects through dual land use, potential political support mechanisms, and technical and economic potential assessments.
The MoorPower research project aims to conduct the first comprehensive investigation into the technical, ecological, socioeconomic and legal aspects of combining peatland rewetting with photovoltaics, known as peatland PV. This also includes the use of rewetted peatland for paludiculture in combination with photovoltaic systems, known as paludiculture PV. Based on the findings, recommendations for the practical implementation of peatland and paludiculture PV in Germany will be developed.
For our “Microclimate and Agricultural Yield” team, we are looking for a student assistant starting at the earliest possible date with the following tasks:
- You will support the project management in coordinating and implementing a major research project on peatland PV in Germany.
- You will conduct literature research and prepare the findings, together with the project results, for reports and scientific publications.
- You will contribute to nationwide networking and the dissemination of project results by supporting public relations activities across various media and communication channels.
- You will support the planning, implementation and supervision of a pot experiment involving paludiculture crops at our Outdoor Performance Lab in Merdingen.
- You will assist with the collection and analysis of on-site data, including plant assessments and microclimatic measurements.
- You will work on a range of industry-related research questions concerning hydrology and water balance.
What you contribute
- You are studying environmental science, biology, ecology, plant physiology, hydrology or a related field.
- You have a basic understanding of the interrelationships between agriculture, renewable energy and sustainability, or you are motivated to develop your knowledge in these areas.
- Initial experience in fieldwork is an advantage, but not a requirement.
- You find it easy to establish and maintain trusting professional relationships.
- You work with commitment, care and a strong focus on quality.
- You plan upcoming tasks independently and proactively, set appropriate priorities and manage your time effectively.
- You are confident in using standard Microsoft Office applications.
- Ideally, you have already gained some experience with RStudio, QGIS or Python.
- You have very good written and spoken German and English skills.
- You hold a valid category B driving licence.
What we offer
- Exclusive insight: In collaborative work with the scientists of our unit, you gain an insight into the everyday life of research and development at a research institute.
- Research mix: With us, you have the opportunity to connect experimental work with theory, applying and expanding your knowledge from your studies.
- Supervision: You will be mentored by scientists in your work, and you will receive feedback on your progress.
- Teamwork: Through exchange with scientific and student staff, you gain experience working in a team and can contribute your already acquired skills.
- Working hours and location: We offer you the option to flexibly adjust your working hours to your needs in consultation, and occasionally work from home.
- Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and create space for diversity.
- After Work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual staff celebrations.
The remuneration depends on the level of university education attained.
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 can be answered for you by:
Agnes Wilke
+49 761 4588-2501
[email protected]
Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE
Requisition Number: 85072
