Research associate Jobs in Freiburg Im Breisgau

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

In our group 'Power Converter Units', we research and develop novel power electronic systems – from innovative assembly, interconnection, and cooling concepts to advanced circuit topologies and intelligent control algorithms.

The use of wide-bandgap power semiconductors made of silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) promises many advantages over semiconductors made of silicon, including reduced switching losses, higher switching frequency and improved power density. Power modules with GaN or SiC power semiconductors require new module concepts with adapted assembly and interconnection technology to exploit the full potential of the semiconductors. The small contact structures of lateral GaN dies pose a challenge for the assembly and interconnection technology for novel GaN power modules. For the attachment of these GaN dies, different processes must be implemented and evaluated.

For group 'Power Converter Units' we are therefore looking for a student to join us for an internship as soon as possible.

Your tasks will include, among other things:

• You implement and evaluate various die-attach processes (silver sintering, transient liquid phase bonding, electrically conductive adhesives, …) for the successful assembly of novel GaN power modules.
• You commission a hot press for the pressure-assisted silver sintering process.
• You design alignment fixtures for the precise positioning of complex multi-layer power module assemblies in Autodesk Inventor.
• You create a final documentation.

What you contribute

• You are studying Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related field.
• You are proficient in using 3D CAD software.
• You enjoy hands-on tinkering.
• Ideally, you already have practical experience in assembly and interconnection technology.
• You value contributing to your team and working together to achieve shared goals.
• You plan and complete tasks independently and to a high standard.
• You are able to express yourself fluently in both German and English.

What we offer

• Exclusive insights: By working together with the scientists in our department, you will gain insights into the day-to-day research and development work at a research institute.
• Laboratory infrastructure: At Fraunhofer ISE, we work with state-of-the-art equipment and devices so that research projects can be carried out using the latest technology.
• Research mix: You will have the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory, thus applying and expanding the knowledge you gained during your studies.
• Supervision: You will be supervised by scientists during your work and receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: You will gain experience in working in a team with our scientific and student staff and can contribute the experience you have already gained.
• Working hours and location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adjust your working hours to your needs and to occasionally work from home.
• Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and embrace diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

Compensation will be paid for the duration of the internship. The weekly workload will be 39 hours.

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.

Ready for a change? Then apply now (incl. application letter, CV, certificates of employment/performance) 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.

Questions about this position will be answered by:

Dennis Wöhrle

Tel. +49 761 4588-2025

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

Requisition Number: 84871