Your Job:

Pulp and paper production is an energy-intensive process, due to the demand of thermal energy for the paper drying stage and electricity for pulp production. While biomass use substantially reduces GHG emissions, reliance on a carbon intensive electricity grid remains a key environmental challenge.

In this thesis, optimization tools will be used to determine the optimal design and operation of an integrated pulp and paper plant. The model will combine various technological components and demand response. The aim is to minimize costs and global warming impact, thereby improving both economic and environmental performance.

Your tasks in detail:

• Reviewing relevant literature on energy systems in pulp and paper production
• Expanding the existing optimisation model based on our in-house framework COMANDO
• Implementing demand response strategies based on variable electricity prices
• Documenting and presenting the results in a structured and clear manner

Your Profile:

We are looking for a motivated and committed student who is eager to contribute to innovative projects in the field of energy systems and process design.

You are a great fit for our team if you:

• are successfully completing your studies with above-average grades in Chemical Engineering, Energy- or Process Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computational Engineering Sciences, Simulation Sciences, or similar
• have gained practical experience in optimization methods
• bring solid programming experience (preferably Python)
• are able to work independently and in a structured manner
• communicate confidently in English, both written and spoken
• have a strong interest in energy systems and process design
• have German language skills, but this is not mandatory

Our Offer:

We work on highly relevant innovative topics and offer you the possibility to actively shape the change. We support you with:

• Supervision by an expert in the respective fields
• An interesting and socially relevant topic for your thesis with future-oriented themes
• Deep insight into current research on optimization of industrial energy systems
• Ideal conditions for gaining practical experience alongside your studies
• Flexible working arrangements e.g. partly working from home
• An interdisciplinary collaboration on projects in an international, committed and collegial team
• Excellent technical equipment and the newest technology
• Highly motivated scientists of different subject areas working together
• The chance to independently prepare and work on your tasks
• A large research campus with green spaces, offering the best possible means for networking with colleagues and pursuing sports alongside work

In addition to exciting tasks and a collaborative working atmosphere in Jülich, we have a lot more to offer: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality