Bachelor / Master / Internship project

The UFZ

The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.

The job

Join our team to investigate electro-assisted capture of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water using electrospun fiber materials. The project focuses on testing electrospun fibers as advanced materials for the capture of short-chain and long-chain PFAS. By combining electrospinning with electro-assisted treatment, the work aims to explore how fiber properties and applied electrical conditions influence PFAS uptake and removal efficiency. The project will contribute to a better understanding of electro-assisted PFAS capture mechanisms and the potential of electrospun fiber materials for the treatment of PFAS-contaminated water.

Your tasks

You will support experimental investigations of electro-assisted PFAS capture using electrospun fiber materials. Depending on the progress of the project, your tasks may include:

• Conduct laboratory experiments to investigate the electro-assisted uptake and capture of short-chain and long-chain PFAS using electrospun fiber materials
• Investigate the influence of different fiber materials and experimental conditions on PFAS capture and removal efficiency
• Perform and evaluate experiments under different electrochemical and adsorption conditions
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to reproducible experimental workflows
• Assist with data processing, analysis, visualization, and interpretation of experimental results

We offer

• The opportunity to gain practical experience in electrospinning, adsorption, electrochemical processes, and PFAS research
• Excellent supervision that supports your personal and professional development
• Exciting insights into the work of a leading research institute
• The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a wide range of perspectives
• The opportunity to contribute and actively shape your own ideas and impulses right from the start
• Modern laboratory facilities and technical equipment to optimally support your work
• Hands-on experience with the development and experimental testing of advanced fiber-based materials for PFAS removal

Your profile

• Student in chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental sciences, chemical engineering, materials science, or a related field
• Previous practical or theoretical experience with adsorption and electrochemical processes or electrospinning is an advantage
• Interest in experimental laboratory work and the ability to work systematically, independently, and accurately
• Good written and spoken English skills

Please note that external consultants will also be involved in the selection process for this position alongside UFZ employees .

The job

Join our team to investigate electro-assisted capture of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water using electrospun fiber materials. The project focuses on testing electrospun fibers as advanced materials for the capture of short-chain and long-chain PFAS. By combining electrospinning with electro-assisted treatment, the work aims to explore how fiber properties and applied electrical conditions influence PFAS uptake and removal efficiency. The project will contribute to a better understanding of electro-assisted PFAS capture mechanisms and the potential of electrospun fiber materials for the treatment of PFAS-contaminated water.

Place of work

Leipzig

Working time

As given by the regulations of the university

Contract limitations

limited contract / minimum 3 months

Contact

Your contact for any questions you may have about the job:
vaishali.choudhary@ufz.de
anett.georgi@ufz.de

Your application

To ensure a fair selection process , please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and relevant supporting documents) via our online portal without a photo , age information, or details about your marital status.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UFZ values diversity and is actively committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all employees, regardless of their origin, religion, beliefs, disability, age or sexual identity.
We welcome people who represent diverse backgrounds, identities and perspectives. We therefore particularly encourage people who are affected by structural discrimination to apply to us.

Application deadline: 30.09.2026