The Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI) is a member of the Helmholtz Association (HGF) and funded by federal and state government. AWI focuses on polar and marine research in a variety of disciplines such as biology, oceanography, geology, geochemistry and geophysics thus allowing multidisciplinary approaches to scientific goals.
Master Thesis in chemistry or environmental sciences– Weathering of plastics under simulated Arctic conditions
Background
Weathering studies of synthetic polymers under temperate or tropical conditions (simulated or in situ) were extensively performed in the past. In contrast, studies considering Arctic conditions (e.g. freeze/thaw cycles) are still rare. Since the Arctic is assumed to be a “hot spot” for plastic pollution and weathering leads to microplastic formation, this master's thesis will simulate Arctic weathering through UV exposure and sequential freeze/thaw cycles.
We are looking for one Master student in chemistry or environmental sciences (f/m/d/x)to analyze the weathering of plastics under simulated Arctic conditions.
Your Tasks
As part of the master's thesis, selected synthetic polymers will be subjected to UV weathering at ambient temperatures, representing waters of Svalbard in summer and freeze/thaw cycles. Analyses will be performed by µATR-FTIR spectroscopy and SEM-EDX.
Your Profile
- enrolled at an University
Further Information
The place of employment will be Helgoland, 27498.
Start: as soon as possible
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)
