Internship - Synthesis of highly porous materials for direct air capture

WE ARE SKYTREE

Skytree enables a transition to a world with cleaner Air for everyone. We do this by developing and deploying smart technology that captures atmospheric carbon dioxide, enabling its use or storage to combat climate change and aid society and businesses around the world.

Born out of the European Space Agency (ESA), we are a global team of highly talented scientists, engineers and business professionals, supported by an experienced management team. Our working culture is based on a dynamic and smart approach to business with an open and understanding attitude to others and a desire to expand the boundaries of what is possible. As we enter a new phase of growth, we are looking for a driven Msc student to go on this journey with us.

Take a moment to read more about our values and life at Skytree on our Careers Page.

Ready to make your mark on the world of CO2? Then read on!

THE PROJECT

Skytree develops technology for Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO2, focusing on creating CO2 capture filters using sorbent materials. These materials are crucial for the efficiency of DAC units. Skytree aims to develop a range of sorbent materials, with porosity being a key factor for their improvement.

While there are many methods to synthesize highly porous materials, they are often costly, limiting their industrial use. Cheaper alternatives lack sufficient porosity and surface area. Commercial materials can be modified to enhance their properties. In this project, a student will research synthesis and modification methods for highly porous materials, replicate the best candidates in the lab, and characterize them to assess if the desired improvements are met.

The project duration will be up to 6 months with a starting date in August or September 2024.

YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT BY

• Performing in-depth research on commercially available highly porous materials and recent advancements in lab-scale synthesis of porous materials

• Performing in-house synthesis of highly-porous materials and material modifications to achieve desired material properties, followed by characterization of materials using the techniques available in-house.

• Going beyond Skytree: contacting companies for material specifications and performing characterization tests externally, together with your supervisor.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• A self-sufficient, proactive Master student, with a chemical background (MSc. in chemistry, chemical engineering or material science)

• You have hands-on experience and enjoy working in the chemical laboratory

• You enjoy cross-disciplinary challenges which require creative thinking.

• You have an open-mind and enjoy working as part of a diverse, multi-cultural team

• You are a good communicator and can write clear, concise technical documentation

• You are proficient in English, both verbally and in written form

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

• An opportunity for professional and personal growth in one of the most innovative cleantech start-ups in Amsterdam!

• A diverse and international team

• A cozy office located close to the Science Park train station, also close to the highway

• Access to the Science Park and Amsterdam University cafeterias (and all the great and healthy meal options)

• A monthly lunch allowance

• Regular social activities hosted by our very own Champagne Committee

• Compensation and working schedule will be determined on a case by case basis

QUESTIONS?

Need some more info, or simply have a question for us? Don’t hesitate to reach out! Please send an email to lucian.morariu@skytree.eu and I will get back to you!