INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Internship »production and characterization of fuel cell components«

CompanyFraunhofer-Gesellschaft
LocationOberhausen
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMarch 11, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
The intern will conduct literature and patent research, followed by the production, assembly, and characterization of fuel cell components. Responsibilities also include formulation development of conductive polymers, research into innovative manufacturing processes, and the design, construction, and validation of test stands.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
280
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
39 hours
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About The Company
Fraunhofer IGD is the international leading institute for applied research in visual computing. Visual computing is image- and model-based information technology and includes computer graphics and computer vision, as well as virtual and augmented reality. In simple terms, the Fraunhofer researchers in Darmstadt, Rostock, and Kiel are turning information into images and extracting information from images. In cooperation with its partners, technical solutions and market-relevant products are created. Prototypes and integrated solutions are developed in accordance with customized requirements. In doing so, Fraunhofer IGD places users at the forefront, providing them with technical solutions to facilitate computer work and make it more efficient. Owing to its numerous innovations, Fraunhofer IGD raises man-machine interaction to a new level. Man is able to work in a more result-oriented and effective way by means of the computer and visual computing developments.
About the Role

We want an earth that is worth living on. Our applied research in Circular Economy, Carbon Management, Green Hydrogen and Local Energy Systems makes concrete contributions to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. As an institute of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, we show how to not only master challenges, but grow with them. We push boundaries, think ahead and shape the future with applied research. Diverse perspectives and approaches strengthen creativity and innovation in our scientific work.

 

Would you like to help us shape a sustainable world? We are looking for reinforcement!

Electrochemical reactors, such as electrolysers, fuel cells and batteries, are particularly relevant technologies for the future and represent key pillars for the success of the energy and raw materials transition. Despite their different areas of application, these reactors have similarities and synergies in terms of materials and design. One of the main focuses of applied research at Fraunhofer UMSICHT is the development and optimization of energy materials (such as compound-based bipolar plates) as well as cell and stack designs for electrochemical reactors.

 

What you will do

  • Literature and patent research

  • Production, assembly and characterization of fuel cell components

  • Formulation development of conductive polymers

  • Research into innovative manufacturing processes

  • Design, construction and validation of test stands

 

What you bring to the table

  • Studies in mechanical engineering, process engineering or comparable courses of study
  • Basic knowledge of how electrochemical energy converters work and previous knowledge of materials science is an advantage
  • Willingness and enjoyment of practical laboratory work
  • Strong organizational skills and a high motivation and personal responsibility
  • Very good knowledge of German or English

 

What you can expect

We are committed to creating an inspiring working environment in which all employees can develop. To this end, we promote and value the uniqueness of each person and create a culture of respect, openness and appreciation in which everyone is welcome:

  • Teamwork at eye level: an open-minded team in which you can contribute your own ideas. New Work, diversity and inclusion as well as cooperative teamwork are central components of our culture.
  • Theory meets practice: The opportunity to combine your knowledge from your studies with practical experience at the interface between business and science.
  • Flex work: Your studies have priority - we offer you flexible working hours that adapt to your everyday study routine, as well as the opportunity to combine mobile working and on-site work by arrangement with the team.
  • Students@UMSICHT: Comprehensive onboarding, good support and networking opportunities as well as versatile support for your career development through training and keynote speeches.
  • Health & well-being: Health offers for a good balance in everyday life.
  • You can find even more attractive benefits here: Fraunhofer UMSICHT as an employer

The weekly working time is 39 hours. The position can also be filled on a part-time basis.
Remuneration according to the federal government guidelines for intern salaries.

Application:

 

💡 Interested? Apply online now via our career portal and join the Fraunhofer UMSICHT team! We look forward to getting to know you. 

Please submit at least the following documents:

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

 

🌍 Diversity & equal opportunities:

 

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 people are given preference if they are equally suitable.

 

♿ Accessibility:

 

We are continuously working to make the application process and our workplaces more accessible. If you need support, please get in touch - we're here to help!

 

Contact:

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding this position:
Laura Huwald, +49 208 8598-1605

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact:
Emily Kirchhoff, +49 208 8598 - 1353, bewerbung@umsicht.fraunhofer.de

Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology UMSICHT 

www.umsicht.fraunhofer.de 

 

Requisition Number: 82871        

 

Key Skills
Literature ResearchPatent ResearchProductionAssemblyCharacterizationFuel Cell ComponentsFormulation DevelopmentConductive PolymersManufacturing ProcessesTest Stand DesignTest Stand ConstructionTest Stand ValidationOrganizational SkillsPersonal Responsibility
Categories
EngineeringScience & ResearchEnergyEnvironmental & Sustainability
Benefits
Health offers