Practical trainings, student assistants and theses

We are looking for a student who has strong critical thinking and can contribute to the various ongoing projects using X-ray Computed Tomography (CT) at the HIF. CT is the main laboratory technique used for 3D characterization of microstructures in order to study their origins and functionalities (https://www.hzdr.de/db/Cms?pNid=646). At the HIF, various types of materials are regularly characterized with special emphasis on geological materials, e.g. rock cores and crushed ores, as well as recyclable materials, e.g. batteries and electronic waste. The student will do both experimental work and data processing of the 3D images. The position does not require previous experience, although an open and curious mind with the willingness to learn is crucial. The work can be adapted into a BSc or MSc thesis.

• Enrolled in STEM courses. E.g. Materials or Earth sciences and engineering
• Critical thinking, independent and reliable work culture
• Willingness to work in the lab as well as to process data in a computer
• Good communication skills in English

• Working place HZDR: Freiberg (HIF)
• Start date: July 2024, initially for 3 months
• Duration: flexible schedule up to 19 h/week
• Remuneration according to HZDR internal regulation
• Applications will be accepted only until a suitable candidate is found

Ion flotation and solvent extraction are promising separation processes to separate and/or remove low concentrated metals from process waters. The demand for developing special collectors (ion flotation reagent)/extractants for enhanced separation efficiency of metals using these processes is increasing due to increased demand for the metals. Further to make these processes sustainable, these special molecules need to be highly selective, efficient and ecofriendly. Strong metal binding ability is the main requisite for such novel molecules and further depending on their application, they need to behave as flotation or solvent extraction reagent. However, synthesizing novel collectors having both abilities is a challenging task. Thus, the main aim is to modify the molecules with already known metal specificity, to introduce the hydrophobicity required for the ion flotation or solvent extraction process.
This student work aims to modify the molecules by adding new functionalities and synthesizing them for improved metal complexation and process application. Additionally, their characterization as possible reagents in either flotation or solvent extraction processes will be investigated. The results will help in fundamental understanding of modified molecules in terms of their interaction with metals as well as form the basis for the development of a sustainable metal recovery process. This interdisciplinary project offers a unique integration of approaches, competences and resources in biotechnology, chemistry and process and environmental engineering and involves different departments at HIF.

Tasks:

• Selection of hydrophobic group
• Modification, synthesis and purification of novel molecules
• Characterization of developed molecules, Ion flotation or solvent extraction tests

• Field of study: Chemistry, Chemical Engineering
• Experience in organic chemistry, knowledge of the techniques to synthesize compounds and to characterize them; experience in coordination chemistry, biochemistry and/or technical chemistry is advantageous
• Good communication skills in German and English, spoken and written
• Ability to work independently and systematically

Working in a multi-disciplinary and international team, with world class research environment at HZDR and HIF.
Can get cross functional working experience and exposure to organic synthesis, modified biomolecules, solution and extractive hydrometallurgy, process biotechnology, chemical and environmental engineering

• Working place HZDR: Location Dresden or Freiberg (HIF)
• Start date: Either an immediate start or a start in 2023 is possible
• Duration: 6 month
• Remuneration according to HZDR internal regulation