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Student (f/m/x) Process Engineering, Energy Engineering or similar: SOFC Maritime Drive Train
Job Description
Req ID:  4306
Place of work:  Stuttgart
Starting date:  01.05.2026
Career level:  Student employment
Type of employment:  Part 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 12,000 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 180 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

A systemic transformation in on-board energy systems in the maritime sector is needed to achieve significant emissions reduction from waterborne transport and to comply with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) strategy. A key enabler of this transition is the development of efficient, scalable, and resilient on-board energy systems—particularly high-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs).

 

At the German Aerospace Center (DLR), the Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics in Stuttgart operates a state-of-the-art test facility dedicated to the experimental investigation of SOFC modules with power outputs up to 40 kW. To understand their operational characteristics and to develop innovative plant concepts, the SOFC module will be modelled and experimentally tested, and the response will enable the validation of a transient model. Transient operation, such as transition from part load or no load to full load, transitions between different fuels and realistic passenger vessel load profiles will be modelled and experimentally tested. A hardware in the loop approach will be followed to integrate the response of additional balance of plant components.

 

Your tasks

  • Collaborating with the experimental and simulation team for the setup of model and test rig
  • Identify and make necessary modifications in the test rig as well as in the transient model
  • Support the development and model validation of the dynamic system model

 

Your profile

  • Working towards or hold a Bachelor's/Master's degree in Mechanical/Chemical Engineering or similar
  • Strong grasp of Thermodynamics and Engineering First principles (i. e. Mass and Energy Balances)
  • Mathematical modelling skills
  • Strong research skills and ability to work independently 
  • First hand experience with experimental setups
  • Practical and technical skills
  • 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 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 4306) please contact:

 

Dr. Marc Heddrich 
Tel.: +49 711 6862 8184