Oberhausen: Master thesis »Investigations into the extraction of ingredients from green plants for foodstuffs«

As one of 76 institutes of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft we show how to not only master crises, but grow from them. Pushing boundaries. Always trying something new. Not just thinking, but thinking ahead. We turn research into the future.

We want an earth that is worth living on. With our applied research on Circular Economy, Carbon Management, Green Hydrogen and Local Energy Systems, we make concrete contributions to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Our employees conduct research in the fields of energy, environment, safety, health, communication and mobility.

Supplying the world's population with valuable food and sustainable consumption and production is considered one of the greatest challenges of the coming decades (SDG2 / Bioeconomy Goal 12). The production of fruit and vegetables generates by-products every year that cannot be processed due to quality deviations and market fluctuations. Methods are to be developed to extract valuable ingredients and reduce antinutrient substances. 

Supplying the world's population with valuable food and ensuring sustainable consumption and production is considered one of the greatest challenges of the coming decades (SDG2 / Bioeconomy Goal 12). The production of fruit and vegetables generates by-products every year that cannot be processed due to quality deviations and market fluctuations. Methods are to be developed that extract valuable ingredients and reduce antinutrient substances. Before starting the Master's thesis, you have the opportunity to do an internship.

What you will do

• Literature research on extraction processes, industrial extraction of plant juices, precipitation methods, identification of quality-reducing and quality-enhancing substances in green plants and purification processes, etc.

• Development of processes for extracting desired fractions (pressing, centrifuging, precipitation, filtration, membrane processes, adsorption, etc.)

• Experiments on the utilization of remaining biomass

• Accompanying analysis (e.g. Kjeldahl, SDS-PAGE, TS, saponins...)

• Statistical evaluation and assessment of the results and classification in current research

What you bring to the table

• Studies in the field of natural sciences or engineering, preferably related to food or biotechnology
• A keen interest in chemistry and analytical processes
• Ability to work independently in the laboratory and technical center (according to instructions)
• Good knowledge of English is an advantage 

What you can expect

• As part of a dynamic team, you actively drive sustainable solutions for a resource-efficient future
• Opportunity to combine your knowledge from your studies with practical experience at the interface between business and science and to integrate your own ideas
• New Work, diversity and cooperative interaction are important components of our strategic orientation
• Flexible working hours - we know that your studies come first 
• Flexible work locations that fit your studies - mobile work and on-site work are combined as needed
• Intense support for the preparation of your final thesis
• Health and mindfulness programs for good balance
• You can find even more attractive benefits here: Fraunhofer UMSICHT as employer

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!

We would like to point out that applications are only accepted via our career portal. For data protection reasons, we cannot accept applications by e-mail. Please submit at least the following documents:

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

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this position:
Antje van Gemmern
+49 208 8598 1392
bewerbung@umsicht.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT

Requisition Number: 79129