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Research Assistant/Internship (m/f/d)
Job Description
Req ID:  4118
Place of work:  Stuttgart
Starting date:  01.04.2026
Career level:  Student employment, Internship, Student research project and final thesis
Type of employment:  Part time, Full-time
Duration of contract:  6 Monate

Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector - Federal Government (TVöD-Bund)

Enter the fascinating world of the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V.; DLR) and help shape the future through research and innovation! We offer an exciting and inspiring working environment driven by the expertise and curiosity of our 11,000 employees from 100 nations and our unique infrastructure. Together, we develop sustainable technologies and thus contribute to finding solutions to global challenges. Would you like to join us in addressing this major future challenge? Then this is your place!

 

 

The Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics conducts research with over 150 staff members in the field of efficient, resource-conserving energy storage and next-generation energy conversion technologies. Our work spans from theoretical studies and fundamental laboratory research to the operation of pilot-scale facilities.

 

What to expect

At the institute of Engineering Thermodynamics, DLR Stuttgart operates a state-of-the-art test facility for the experimental investigation and characterization of high-temperature fuel cell and electrolysis modules from various manufacturers, with electrical output of up to 120 kW. These modules are operated either in fuel cell mode to generate electricity or in electrolysis mode to produce syngas from CO2 and/or steam for energy storage applications. Within multiple research projects, the modules undergo extensive experimental campaigns for product optimization in close cooperation with industrial partners and are typically replaced after several months of operation.

 

In parallel, the Electrochemical High-Temperature Processes (EHT) group develops models and control strategies to enable operation of these modules under novel conditions, with the overarching goal of supporting the broad application of solid oxide cell (SOC) technologies. Model development is based on an in-house transient simulation tool as well as machine learning methods that leverage experimentally generated data to predict future system behaviour.

 

As an intern, student assistant or thesis student, you will support the adaptation, optimization and extension of the test facility for new modules and contribute to the development of prediction models for use in subsequent experimental campaigns. 

 

Your tasks

  • Practical work on adaptation of test rigs for new modules
  • Support during experimental campaigns
  • Planning tasks and support for test rig control system development
  • Development of prediction models using machine learning methods and existing experimental data
  • Use of simulation tools to define and evaluate operating strategies

 

Your profile

  • First hand experience with machine learning methods
  • Basic knowledge of fuel cell and electrolysis technologies
  • First hand experience with experimental setups
  • Practical and technical skills
  • Capacity to work independently and reliable
  • Enthusiasm for hands-on and experimental work

 

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.

 

 

We look forward to getting to know you!

 

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 4118) please contact:

 

Marc Heddrich 
Tel.: L-WAHL: +49 711 6862 8184