The foundation **Max Planck Institute für Kohlenforschung in Mülheim an der Ruhr** is a renowned research institution that is over 100 years old and has already received two Nobel Prizes in its history. The institute is engaged in basic research in the field of catalysis with the aim of maximizing the efficient use of natural resources.

**Minerva Carbon** is an EXIST-funded spin-off project hosted at the Max-Planck-Institute für Kohlenforschung in Mülheim an der Ruhr. Together with Max Planck scientists, we translate cutting-edge catalysis and carbon materials research into scalable, sustainable materials for energy storage and conversion. We are currently building Minerva Carbon as a research-driven startup on the path toward a leading technology company.

## **Master’s Thesis (m/f/d) Electrochemistry & Carbon Materials**

minimum 6 months

**Thesis focus**

We are looking for a master’s student to work on novel carbon materials for lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries with a strong focus on synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical validation.

**Your thesis work**

- Synthesize and characterize advanced carbon-based materials for energy applications.
- Assemble lithium-ion and sodium-ion battery cells, including electrode preparation and glovebox work.
- Conduct, analyze and interpret electrochemical measurements and data to assess battery performance and correlate results with material properties and performance targets.
- Document procedures and results clearly (lab notes, data organization, technical summaries) and prepare your thesis in close alignment with the scientific supervision team.
- Alongside the thesis research, you will support selected lab and development activities (e.g., measurement workflows, reproducibility and documentation)

**Your profile**

- Enrolled in a Master’s program in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
- Hands-on experience in a lab environment; confident with safe handling of hazardous chemicals.
- Basic understanding of electrochemistry and battery testing principles (cell components, cycling, rate tests, impedance basics).
- Structured, reliable, and self-motivated working style; strong curiosity and willingness to learn.
- Very good English skills; German is a plus

**We offer**

- A high-quality Master’s thesis topic at the interface of Max Planck research and an EXIST-funded startup.
- Direct supervision and collaboration with Max Planck scientists and the Minerva Carbon team.
- Practical training in material synthesis, advanced characterization, and battery cell assembly/testing.
- Flexible working hours compatible with your studies and lab schedules.
- Startup environment: flat hierarchies, quick decisions, and high learning velocity.

**Practical details**

- Duration: minimum 6 months
- Start: flexible
- Location: Mülheim an der Ruhr (on-site)

Take the opportunity to be part of an innovative startup from the very beginning!

Send your application containing your CV, student record and a short motivation note via e-mail to:

**Dr. Abdu Bilican**

Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung

Kaiser-Wilhelm-Platz 1, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr
[bilican@kofo.mpg.de](https://mailto:bilican@kofo.mpg.de)

The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Severely disabled applicants will be given priority if equally qualified. We ask for your understanding that submitted application documents will not be returned.

The information on the collection of personal  data in accordance with Art. 13 GDPR can be found on our homepage under [https://www.kofo.mpg.de/863307/200609\_Datenschutz\_Bewerbung\_engGB.pdf](https://www.kofo.mpg.de/863307/200609_Datenschutz_Bewerbung_engGB.pdf)