Research Internship (m/w/d)

The Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion (MPI CEC) in Mülheim an der Ruhr studies fundamental chemical processes for energy conversion of molecules. A startup initiative from the department of Molecular Catalysis at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion (MPI CEC) is currently looking for a

Research Internship (m/w/d)

interested in conducting research in the field of catalyst development and organic synthesis. Our research is focused on green chemistry, catalysis and process development. We work at the interface between chemistry and engineering and therefore offer a very versatile work environment. Projects include the development of new reactions, design of suitable catalysts, catalyst recycling and scale-up of processes into batch and continuously operated miniplants.

Your internship

The aim of the startup initiative C4Value is to develop a novel catalyst and process for the upgrading of bio-acetaldehyde (C2) to value-added C4 chemicals with Acetoin (3-hydroxy-butanon) as key intermediate. As part of an agile team, you will continuously develop and test new catalysts, perform and optimize their synthesis and study recycling concepts to meet industrial requirements for scaling up the reaction in terms of catalyst time-on-stream and process stability. Alternatively, your project can focus on developing a “Chemistree” starting from acetoin, exploiting the possibility to use acetoin as basis for a variety of value-added compounds for the chemical value chain. 

We offer

  • A green and sustainable project
  • A fun and friendly international work environment at an excellent research institution with state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories
  • Opportunity to join a potential startup and drive our technology with your expertise

Requirements

  • Interest and motivation to work in the field of catalyst synthesis, ideally with some experience in organic synthesis
  • Interest and motivation to work with lab-scale exceeding reactors and miniplant’s
  • A level of English that is sufficient for communication with your international colleagues and understanding scientific literature

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase gender and racial diversity and therefore explicitly encourages applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups.

If this vacancy has sparked your interest, do not hesitate to reach out with your personal motivation and background!

Contact

Maurice Belleflamme
C4Value
Future Co-Founder
Max Planck Institute for Chemical Energy Conversion
Stiftstraße 34 – 36, Mülheim an der Ruhr, 45470
Tel: +49 (0) 208 306 3170
E-Mail: maurice(at)c4value.com

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