Master Thesis in in chemistry or environmental sciences - Evaluation of analysis data of a laser (QCL) infrared imaging microscope for quantification of microplastics in ice core samples

Area of research:Diploma & Master Thesis

Part-Time Suitability:The position is suitable for part-time employment.

Job description:Master Thesis in in chemistry or environmental sciences - Evaluation of analysis data of a laser (QCL) infrared imaging microscope for quantification of microplastics in ice core samplesBackgroundMicroplastics (MP) are ubiquitous and considerable quantities can even be detected in the Arctic. Ice core samples taken during the MOSAiC expedition were recently analyzed by µFTIR analysis. However, current analyses are slow. Hence, we reanalyzed these samples using a new (QCL) high-speed infrared imaging microscope (Lumos II Ilim). We now need to compare both datasets to evaluate the accuracy of the data generated by the QCL microscope.

We are looking for one Master student in chemistry or environmental sciences (f/m/d/x) to evaluate analysis data of a laser (QCL) infrared imaging microscope for quantification of microplastics in ice core samples.
Your TasksAs part of the master's thesis, in silico analyses of large datasets generated by two FTIR microscopes will be performed by using chemometrics and statistics.
Your Profile

• enrolled at an University
• brief knowledge in “R” and/or “Python” is recommended

Further InformationYou are interested?You are interested?For more information or questions regarding the project, please contact Dr Gunnar Gerdts (gunnar.gerdts@awi.de) and Dr Sebastian Primpke (sebastian.primpke@awi.de)

Please forward your applications with the standard documentation (cover letter with motivation, CV) by 30 November 2026 to: Dr Gerdts (gunnar.gerdts@awi.de) or Dr Primpke (sebastian.primpke@awi.de)
This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.