Overview
BIOWEG is seeking a motivated student assistant (Werkstudent/in) to support the bioleaching and hydrometallurgical work within the BIOPEPLEACH project. You will work closely with the Project Engineer and collaborate with academic partners at TU Berlin.
This is a hands-on laboratory role. You will be assisting in leaching experiments, preparing samples for analysis, maintaining lab equipment, and contributing to literature review.
Your Role
Laboratory work (primary focus):
* Hands-on experience in a chemical laboratory.
* Preparation of feedstock samples for leaching experiments
* Setting up experiments for leaching and filtration.
* Recording experimental parameters: pH, ORP/Eh measurements, temperature logging, sampling at defined time intervals
* Prepare samples for ICP-OES/ICP-MS/HPLC/IC analysis
* Maintenance of laboratory equipments like pH meters, ORP probes, and titration equipment
* Prepare calibration standards and reagent solutions
Data and documentation:
* Analyze and extract important, applicable data from research papers.
* Maintain clean, organized lab documentation following SOPs
Your Profile
* Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Process Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field
* Basic understanding of solution chemistry: pH, acid-base equilibria, precipitation reactions
* Understanding of hydrometallurgical concepts is an advantage
* Interest in sustainability, circular economy, and critical raw materials
* Hands-on laboratory experience (from coursework, internships, or thesis work)
* Careful, systematic working style with attention to detail and reproducibility
* Reliable, self-organized, and able to work independently after initial training
* Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced startup
* Good written and verbal communication skills in English (working language of the project); Fluency in German is a plus
What We Offer
* Hands-on involvement in a project at the intersection of biotechnology and hydrometallurgy
* Collaboration with academic partners at TU Berlin (UniSysCat Cluster of Excellence)
* Practical experience with industrial-relevant analytical techniques (ICP, HPLC, titration)
* Mentorship from an experienced process engineer with pilot-scale REE separation expertise
* Flexible hours compatible with your study schedule
* Potential for the role to develop into a thesis project (Bachelor's or Master's)
About us
BIOWEG is a purpose-driven company developing bio-based alternatives to fossil-based ingredients using Biotech and Green Chemistry.
We create sustainable products that match or even outperform fossil-based alternatives while remaining price competitive. Our main products, MicBeads (sensory micropowder) and RheoWeg (rheology modifier), are used by leading cosmetics and chemical companies.
We are driving to create a better world and a lasting, sustainable impact. Join our diverse and relentless team to revolutionize and drive green innovation across multiple industries.