The German Aerospace Center (DLR) invites applications for a Master's thesis in the field of materials science for sustainable energy systems. The project aims to develop a fundamental and experimental understanding of oxide-ion driven corrosion mechanisms in Solar Salt for thermal energy storage (TES). You will contribute to crucial research by performing controlled salt modifications, systematic corrosion experiments, and developing objective evaluation criteria.
What You'll Do
- Familiarize yourself with molten nitrate salt corrosion in TES systems and the role of salt chemistry.
- Plan and execute a systematic screening matrix for relevant TES alloys.
- Conduct high-temperature salt exposure tests under defined conditions with controlled salt modifications.
- Perform post-test evaluation using standardized methods like mass change analysis, SEM-EDX microstructural characterization, and damage assessment.
- Optionally conduct advanced analytics such as salt chemistry analysis or dissolved metal trend analysis, depending on available equipment and time.
- Develop an objective 'critical condition' criterion and prepare comparative results charts plus a thesis-ready dataset and report.
What We're Looking For
- Enrollment as a Master’s student in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Power Engineering, or a similar field.
- Basic knowledge of materials science, corrosion, or high-temperature processes.
- A strong interest in hands-on experimental work, including handling furnaces, sample preparation, and microscopy workflows.
- Good English language skills.
Benefits & Compensation
- 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.
- We offer numerous training and development opportunities.
Work Mode
This is an on-site thesis position. Work can be based at one of our locations in Stuttgart, Cologne-Porz, Ulm, Oldenburg, or Hambburg.
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.
