Academic Internship in Materials Engineering or Chemical Engineering (f/m/div.)

Your contribution to something big: Project Background: Conductive particles pose a significant short-circuit risk in electronic assemblies. While initial studies have compared "new" and "aged" particle conditions, the time-dependent evolution of particle surface properties and their influence on electrical contact probability remain largely unexplored. Current risk assessments often assume a worst-case scenario with unaged particles. This project aims to provide a more nuanced understanding by investigating how various materials age over extended periods, how their surface chemistry changes, and consequently, how their ability to cause electrical breakdown evolves. Research Objectives: Characterize the long-term aging kinetics of selected conductive particle materials under defined environmental conditions. This involves tracking changes in surface chemistry and morphology over extended periods; Quantify the impact of long-term aging on the electrical contact probability and breakdown voltage of these particles. This will involve repeating and extending the experimental methodology outlined in the literature; Develop a semi-empirical model or framework to predict the aging-induced change in contact probability for different particle materials over time. This will allow for more dynamic and realistic risk assessments. Proposed Study Plan: Literature Review; Experimental Setup Familiarization; Particle Material Selection, Preparation & Initial Characterization; Accelerated Aging Experiments (Design of Aging Regimes) & Intermediate Electrical Testing; Detailed Characterization of Aged Particles & Data Analysis; Model Development (Propose a semi-empirical model that describes the time-dependent evolution of contact probability based on aging conditions and material properties); Discussion & Thesis Writing.

Responsibilities

Characterize the long-term aging kinetics of selected conductive particle materials under defined environmental conditions; Quantify the impact of long-term aging on the electrical contact probability and breakdown voltage of these particles; Develop a semi-empirical model or framework to predict the aging-induced change in contact probability for different particle materials over time; Conduct literature review, experimental setup familiarization, particle material selection, preparation and initial characterization; Perform accelerated aging experiments and intermediate electrical testing; Conduct detailed characterization of aged particles and data analysis; Model development; Discussion and thesis writing

Requirements

Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering or a closely related field

Nice to have

Surface Science and Electrochemistry: Fundamental understanding of surface phenomena, oxidation and corrosion mechanisms and basic electrical contact principles; Materials Characterization Techniques: Theoretical foundation in techniques such as SEM/EDX and electrical resistance measurements; Experimental Design and Data Analysis: Basic knowledge of experimental planning and data analysis, including statistical treatment; Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Analytical mindset with ability to approach complex physical phenomena in a structured manner; Hands-on Laboratory Skills: Strong interest and willingness to develop practical skills in handling sensitive materials and operating laboratory equipment

Benefits

Exchange with colleagues around the world; Medical office (psychology and general clinic) and Social Services Office on site; Training opportunities (e.g., technical training, foreign languages training); Continuous professional development; Access to great discounts in partnerships and Bosch products; Sports and health related activities; Great access to public transports; Free transport from Porto; Flexible benefits platform; Free parking lot; Canteen