Thesis "Quantitative & qualitative differences in blueberries in Agri-PV"

Overview

As one of the world’s largest solar research institutes, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE contributes to a sustainable, economical, secure and socially equitable energy supply. Our goal is to drive the energy transition forward with practically applicable technological solutions – through excellent research results, successful industry collaborations and spin-offs. With around 1,300 employees, we conduct research in four main areas: energy supply, energy distribution, energy storage and energy use. The state-of-the-art R&D infrastructure of Fraunhofer ISE with 22,300 m² of laboratory space enables cutting-edge research at an international level.

Be part of change. You would like to actively help shape the energy transition and be part of a highly motivated team? Then join us in contributing to this with agrivoltaics (Agri-PV). Under the term Agri-PV, our group studies photovoltaic systems that enable electricity generation on the same land in addition to agricultural use. Our main aims are the resource-efficient use of agricultural land and tapping the expansion potential of renewable energy sources. With us, you actively work on achieving this goal. Together, we conduct research on crop shade tolerance, intelligent light management, synergy effects through dual land use, potential policy support mechanisms, and the technical and economic assessment of potentials.

In the BMFTR-funded research project “SynAgri-PV”, we continuously collect microclimatic data at a pilot plant near Paderborn (Büren). The blueberry harvest in an Agri-PV installation is to be compared qualitatively and quantitatively with a reference area. For this purpose, on-site field assessments (bonituren) have to be carried out over the vegetation period (April to approx. August).

Responsibilities

• You carry out regular field assessments (bonituren) in an Agri-PV system and in a reference area, focusing on yield-relevant parameters over the entire vegetation period.
• You process the measurement series provided to you on leaf wetness, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), soil moisture and microclimate.
• You evaluate the qualitative and quantitative differences and relate these observations to the findings from the measurement series.
• You also integrate other factors such as possible disease incidence, pest infestation, rot and water consumption into the results.
• The goal is to write a thesis or a report and to carry out a statistical analysis of the results.

What You Contribute

• You are studying agricultural economics, agricultural sciences, biology, natural sciences or a related field.
• You have a basic understanding of agricultural production, for example with regard to irrigation and quality parameters.
• You bring a basic understanding of sustainability, environmental protection, resource efficiency and the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem nexus.
• You are familiar with the basics of statistics or are willing to learn them.
• You independently and proactively plan upcoming work steps, set priorities and ensure appropriate time management.
• You are proficient in using Microsoft Office.

What We Offer

• Exclusive insight: By working together with the scientists in our work unit, you will gain an insight into everyday research and development at a research institute.
• Research mix: We give you the opportunity to combine experimental work with theory and thus apply and expand your knowledge from your studies.
• Supervision: You will be supervised in your work by scientists and receive feedback on your progress.
• Teamwork: You will gain experience of working in a team by interacting with academic and student staff and will be able to contribute the experience you have already gained.
• Working hours and location: We offer you the opportunity to flexibly adapt your working hours to your needs by arrangement and to work from home from time to time.
• Equal opportunities: We value equal opportunities and make room for diversity.
• After work: Celebrate yourself and your colleagues at after-work events or our annual employee parties.

No remuneration is paid for the thesis.

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.

Ready for change? Apply now with your detailed application documents (including CV, cover letter, employment references/certificates and/or academic transcript) and make a difference! After we receive your online application, you will automatically receive a confirmation of receipt. We will then contact you as soon as possible to let you know the next steps.

Questions about this position will be answered by:
Agnes Wilke
Phone:
Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE
Number: 83237