Research assistant in Monitoring & AI for the EU-funded project "Eastern Lights"

The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft (www.fraunhofer.com) currently operates 76 institutes and research units throughout Germany and is a leading applied research organization. Around 32 000 employees work with an annual research budget of 3.4 billion euros.

The Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geothermal Energy IEG conducts research at seven locations in the fields of integrated energy infrastructures, geothermal energy and sector coupling for a successful energy transition. Our research institute conducts applied research, develops innovative technologies for public and industrial clients and translates these into marketable products and processes.

The EU-funded “Eastern Lights” project will drive risk mitigation in large-scale carbon capture and storage (CCUS) in Eastern Europe. CO2 transport and underground storage will be de-risked by developing monitoring strategies and validating approaches in test facilities. Demonstration of an economically viable decarbonization pathway for the (cement) industry in Eastern Europe.

In the Monitoring & AI department, you will be involved in the development and implementation of AI and machine learning (ML) tools for monitoring and operation of CO2 storage sites. Key responsibilities will include utilizing state-of-the-art ML platforms such as TensorFlow and PyTorch to process and analyze complex datasets related to CO2 transport and storage. You will develop methods for real-time data transmission and processing, ensuring efficient and accurate monitoring of storage site conditions. Additionally, you will be responsible for creating and refining a real-time demonstration interface that provides operational insights. As the project progresses, you will continuously enhance the ML models to adapt to more sophisticated data, ensuring the tools remain at the cutting edge of the field.

We are looking for a research assistant specializing in Monitoring & AI at our Bochum location.

What you will do

Development and application of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) tools for monitoring CO2 reservoirs
Use of TensorFlow and PyTorch to process and analyze data related to CO2 transport and storage
Development of methods for efficient data transmission and processing
Development of a real-time demonstration interface for operational insights
Continuous improvement of ML models as more sophisticated data becomes available
Support in the preparation of research proposals
Preparation of publications (peer-review) and presentations in English
Participation in administrative tasks
Field data collection support

What you bring to the table

Successfully completed university studies (university diploma or master's degree) in the field of geosciences, engineering or physics.
Ideally, you have knowledge of numerical methods and experience with common programming languages (e.g. Matlab, Python)
Very good written and spoken English skills

What you can expect

There is the possibility of a PhD.
Cooperation with national and international partners.
In our institution you will find a harmonious and collegial working atmosphere with flat hierarchies, an informal working culture and trust-based working hours for free and self-determined time management.
We live a family-friendly culture: sometimes family comes first - we know that! That's why we offer support services for balancing family and career.
You will receive tailored soft-skill training and professional development to promote your potential and talents in the best possible way.
Diversity is an important strategic goal at our research institution: we are actively committed to equal opportunities.
Additional benefits: 30 days of vacation (one additional day of vacation on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve), 39 hours/week (full-time), time off in lieu for overtime, annual bonus, company pension scheme, capital-forming benefits, corporate benefits with attractive company partners as well as free parking and a discounted Germany ticket

**The working time per week for the position is 29.25 hours.**This position is also available on a part-time basis. The position is limited until 31.08.2028. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications - regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability. Appointment, remuneration and social security benefits based on the public-sector collective wage agreement (TVöD). Additionally Fraunhofer may grant performance-based variable remuneration components.

With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.

Interested? Apply online now. We look forward to getting to know you!

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this position:

Dr. Shahin Jamali via e-mail

If you have any questions about the application process, please contact

Mr. Philipp Steinborn

Phone +49 355 35540 172

via e-mail

Ms. Melanie Henke Telefon +49 160 92580016

Fraunhofer Research Institution for Energy Infrastructures and Geotechnologies IEG

www.ieg.fraunhofer.de

Requisition Number: 78993 Application Deadline: 05/15/2025

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