Thesis \"Stabilization Procedures for PV Modules\"

Fraunhofer-Institut für Solare Energiesysteme ISE; Freiburg im Breisgau; Hybrid; EUR 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Fraunhofer ISE in Freiburg is seeking a student assistant for the Degradation Analysis and Modelling group to support a Bachelor's or Master's thesis starting Jan 16, 2027. You will run aging tests on PV modules in climate chambers and solar simulators, and help stabilize modules with emerging cell technologies.

You will measure current–voltage curves during stabilization, evaluate results, and help draft best practices for module stabilization.

Qualifications

• Enrolled as a student in physics, engineering or a comparable field of study.
• Prior knowledge of accelerated aging tests or electrical measurements on PV modules is an advantage, but not required.
• Good communication skills in German and English.
• Ability to work independently, plan tasks proactively, and manage time effectively.

Responsibilities

• Subject PV modules to aging tests and stabilization procedures using climate chambers and solar simulators.
• Characterize module behavior by measuring current–voltage curves during and after stabilization.
• Evaluate experimental results and derive efficient best practices for module stabilization.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Proactive planning

Independent working

Time management

German and English communication

Education

Student in physics, engineering or comparable field

Job description

As one of the world's largest solar energy research institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE makes a significant contribution to a sustainable, economical, secure, and socially equitable energy supply worldwide. Our goal is to advance the energy transition by providing concrete, implementable technological solutions through excellent research results, successful industrial collaborations, and spin-offs. To this end, our :1,300 employees conduct research in four key areas: energy supply, energy distribution, energy storage, and energy utilization. Fraunhofer ISE's state-of-the‑art R&D infrastructure, with 22,300 m² of laboratory space, enables cutting‑edge research at an international level.

Be part of change

Would you like to actively contribute to the energy transition and gain valuable hands‑on experience during your studies? Join us and help turn this vision into reality.

You will support our "Degradation Analysis and Modelling" group, which focuses on evaluating the performance and reliability of the latest photovoltaic modules. As part of the thesis, efficient stabilization procedures will be developed for commercial PV modules incorporating emerging cell technologies, both before and after accelerated aging tests.

For our group "Degradation Analysis and Modelling", we are looking for a student assistant starting on January 16, 2027, with the opportunity to complete a Bachelor's or Master's thesis.

Your tasks will include:

• You subject PV modules to aging tests and stabilization procedures using climate chambers and solar simulators.
• You characterize module behavior by measuring and analyzing current-voltage curves during and after stabilization.
• You evaluate experimental results and derive efficient best practices for module stabilization.

What You Contribute

• You are enrolled as a student in physics, engineering, or a comparable field of study.
• Previous knowledge of accelerated aging tests or electrical measurements on PV modules is an advantage, but not a requirement.
• You have strong interpersonal skills and find it easy to build and maintain trusting professional relationships.
• You work independently, systematically, and with a high level of commitment.
• You are able to plan upcoming tasks proactively, set priorities, and manage your time effectively.
• You have good communication skills in both German and English.

What We Offer

• Exclusive insight: By working together with the scientists in our work unit, you will gain an insight into everyday research and development at a research institute.
• Laboratory infrastructure: At Fraunhofer ISE, we work with state-of-the‑art facilities and equipment so that research projects can be carried out using the latest technology.
• Research mix: We give you the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory and thus apply and expand your knowledge from your studies.
• Supervision: You will be supervised in your work by scientists and receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: You will gain experience of working in a team by interacting with academic and student staff and will be able to contribute the experience you have already gained.
• Working hours and location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adapt your working hours to your needs by arrangement and to work from home from time to time.
• Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and make room for diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

Remuneration is based on the level of your university degree. In addition to the thesis, a contract as a student assistant is agreed. Remuneration is based on the level of your university degree.

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 persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.

Questions about this position will be answered by:

Dr. Paul Gebhardt

[phone]

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE

www.ise.fraunhofer.de