CHASE YOUR FUTURE

Join leading scientists from all over the world, grow your scientific and technological skills, work in crossfunctional teams:

An open research environment focusing on topics of paramount importance, challenging scientific work with strong industrial involvement, and professional development opportunities await you.

Apply here and now: personal@chasecenter.at

OPEN POSITIONS

Master Thesis in Chemistry and Chemical Technology

Modeling the Depolymerization of Polyhydroxyalkanoates

in Melt Hydrolysis

We are seeking skilled and motivated young scientists with a finished BSc degree in the field of Chemistry, Physics, Polymer- or Process Engineering for pursuing their diploma/master thesis on a part-time basis (10 to 20h/week), limited to 12 months, to strengthen our team at the headquarters in Linz with immediate entry.

This master thesis explores the kinetics of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) depolymerization during melt hydrolysis, with a focus on building upon and refining existing simulation-assisted kinetic models. By leveraging detailed data on depolymerization products, this project aims to enhance the predictive accuracy of simulation assisted kinetics model, particularly for low molecular weight and water-soluble depolymerization products. Moreover, the nuances of the type of polyhydroxyalkanoates on the depolymerization outcome in conjunction with depolymerization kinetics will underpin the research of bio polyester recycling.

Reference number: 021

Application: until 15.01.2026

We are looking forward to receiving your application (cover letter, CV, academic certificates, employment references), including the reference number of this job posting, to the following email address: personal@chasecenter.at

For more details click here:

Master Thesis in Chemistry and Polymer Technology

Process Development for Starch Hydrolysis

This master thesis focuses on developing a new process for the hydrolysis of a biopolymer. Based on existing literature and available methods a thorough understanding of the behaviour of processed starch properties shall be investigated. Depending on the accuracy and precision of the acquired data, a model of key properties shall be described to enable the simulation of the system throughout a range of process parameters and reactor designs. The project starts with this feasibility study, followed by the build-up of in-depth understanding of the system, leading to a pilot plant design, based on the model predictions. The research project aims at enhancing energy efficiency and product quality aspects compared to the state-of the art processes.

Reference number: 023

Application: until 15.01.2026

For more details click here:

Master Thesis in Chemistry and Chemical Technology

Design of Experiment in Optimization of Constituents in High-Entropic Oxides for CO₂ Hydrogenation to Methanol

This thesis focuses on the synthesis and optimization of high-entropy oxides (HEOs) as heterogeneous catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation to methanol. First, a novel shaping and synthesis method for HEO catalysts will be investigated, followed by a structured design of experiments (DoE) approach. An initial coarse DoE will be conducted to screen and evaluate the influence of each constituent, simplifying the vast compositional space. Based on these findings, a refined DoE will then target the most impactful constituents for further optimization. Once an optimal composition is determined, activation protocols will be studied to enhance catalytic performance in CO₂ hydrogenation.

Reference number: 024

Application: until 15.01.2026

For more details click here: