Practical trainings, student assistants and theses

X-ray computed tomography (XCT) is a 3D imaging technique used for the visualization of internal structures of the sample. High energy X-ray beam is used to penetrate the sample and the different attenuation coefficients of each component (phase) within the sample make it possible to quantify and visualize the 3D distribution of these components.
In our laboratory we analyze minerals and metals in primary and secondary raw materials.
Experimental/laboratory/software work
Your tasks:

• Sample preparation of particulate samples for 3D characterization
• Scan of samples at CT CoreTOM
• Reconstruction of CT data
• Processing the CT data using software Avizo, Dragonfly, ImageJ

Bachelor/Master student (f/m/d) in the field of in earth sciences, physics, chemistry, material sciences, engineering with interest in image processing and the use of sophisticated software

Maximum weekly working hours: 19 hours. Initially limited until 30 June 2026, place of work: Freiberg (HIF)

Biomolecules can be used for the selective binding or precipitation of metal ions from solutions. Little research has been done to date on the selective mobilization of metals from the surface of minerals using biomolecules.
As part of this work, basic techniques of mineral characterization will be learned and applied in the analytics department. Metal-selective biomolecules, which are available in the Biotechnology Department, will be mixed with well-characterized mineral particles under varying conditions. The release of metals will be investigated using elemental analysis methods.
After successful screening of the metal-selective biomolecules, the best candidates will be used for optimization experiments.
This work will be carried out under the joint supervision of the Analytics Department in Freiberg and the Biotechnology Department in Dresden at the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology.

The prerequisite is valid enrollment in a master's program in biology, chemistry, applied natural sciences, geology, or a related natural science program.

Furthermore:

• Extensive laboratory experience in biology, geology, or chemistry
• Basic knowledge of analytical methods is an advantage
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Interested students are requested to submit their application documents, including their resume, most recent transcript, and letter of motivation.

The topic is to be addressed as part of a master's/diploma thesis in conjunction with a mandatory internship. This results in a duration of up to 12 months, whereby an extension or adjustment of the duration may be made in consultation with the supervisor. We can offer you:

- An innovative multidisciplinary research environment with relevance to important issues
- Supervision by experienced scientists
- Practical experience in the fields of biotechnology, analytics, etc.

Phage Surface Display (PSD) is a technology for the identification of novel biomolecules which selectively interact with parts of cancer cells or other structures of medical interest. PSD has been successfully used by many research groups worldwide. The radio labeling of new biomolecules can then lead to new targeted radiotheranostic approaches.
The aim of this master's thesis is to identify new, selective biomolecules for TROP2 and CDCP1. Identified peptides will then be synthesized, radiolabeled, and used for further (radio)pharmacological investigations.

The prerequisite is valid enrollment in a master's program in biotechnology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biology, or a related natural science program.
Furthermore:

• Extensive laboratory experience in the field of molecular biology
• Basic knowledge of bioinformatics is an advantage
• Willingness to work in controlled areas
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Interested students are requested to submit their documents, including their resume, most recent transcript, and letter of motivation.

The topic is to be addressed as part of a master's/diploma thesis in conjunction with a mandatory internship. This results in a duration of up to 12 months, whereby an extension or adjustment of the duration can be made in consultation with the supervisor. We can offer you:

• An innovative multidisciplinary research environment with relevance to important issues
• Supervision by experienced scientists
• Practical experience in molecular biology, medical radiochemistry, etc.