To support the research activities within the project PHAMA in Division 6.1 “Surface and Thin Film Analysis” at the Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) in Berlin-Steglitz, we are looking for a Master’s student starting at the earliest possible date.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are highly persistent chemicals widely used in industrial applications such as textile coatings. Due to their extreme stability, PFAS accumulate in the environment and pose potential risks to human health. Within the research project PHAMA – Photocatalytic decomposition of PFAS and their detection utilizing sustainable advanced materials, new approaches for PFAS detection and degradation are being investigated.
The work focuses on the photocatalytic degradation of PFAS using zinc oxide nanoparticles and advanced analytical techniques for PFAS monitoring. The work will initially focus on laboratory experiments under controlled conditions before the developed approach is applied to real environmental samples.
Your tasks:
- Design and optimization of a laboratory-scale photocatalytic experimental setup for PFAS degradation studies
- Investigation of photocatalytic PFAS degradation under UV irradiation
- Analysis of PFAS concentrations in laboratory and environmental samples
- Evaluation and documentation of experimental results within the framework of a Master thesis
Your profile:
- Master student in chemical engineer, chemistry, materials science or related fields
- Interest in photocatalysis, environmental chemistry, or materials characterization
- Experience with laboratory work is desirable
- Ability to work independently and in a team
- Good English communication skills
Your application:
We welcome applications via email to Dr. Deniz Hülagü, including a brief motivation letter, CV and academic transcripts (including grades). For further information, please contact Dr. Deniz Hülagü via telephone at +49 30 8104-4506 or by email at deniz.huelague@bam.de.
Please submit your application by 20 April 2026.