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Student Assistant – Bioleaching & Hydrometallurgy (Critical Metals) (All Genders)

MON Office
Full-time
Intern / Student

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.