Internship in next generation flame-retardant materials for photovoltaics applications (F/M/D)

Facing the challenges of our time - Help us grow and be more impactful!

For our Solar Modules group based in Neuchâtel. We are looking for a passionate Intern – starting date 1st of september / 6 months

 

Your mission 

Your mission will be to contribute to cutting-edge R&D projects in the field of photovoltaic (PV) modules within CSEM’s Solar Modules team, a recognized expert in advanced PV technologies spanning materials development, module integration, and reliability assessment.
As part of an Innosuisse-funded innovation project conducted in close collaboration with an industrial partner, you will contribute to the development of next-generation flame-retardant materials for photovoltaic modules aimed at enhancing the safety and fire performance of PV installations

 

Your responsibilities

• Characterization of flame-retardant materials and formulations for photovoltaic module applications.
• Investigation of the relationships between material composition, processing conditions, and fire behavior.
• Evaluation of the impact of flame-retardant materials on module performance, durability, and reliability.
• Experimental testing, data analysis, and interpretation of results to support the development and industrialization of innovative fire-safe PV module materials.

 

Your profile

BSc, MSc student (or recently graduated) in Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a related field.

 Know-how

• Knowledge of polymer materials, additives, and formulation concepts.
• Understanding of material characterization techniques and experimental methods.
• Familiarity with thermal, mechanical, or chemical characterization techniques (e.g., DSC, TGA, DMA, FTIR, microscopy) is an advantage.
• Basic knowledge of fire behaviour, flame-retardant materials, or fire testing methods is a plus.
• Experience with laboratory work, experimental design, and data analysis.
• Ability to analyze and interpret scientific data and draw technical conclusions.
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis tools (Python, MATLAB, Origin, or similar) is an advantage.
• Good written and spoken English.

Interpersonal skills

• Autonomous, structured, self-motivated and solution oriented working approach
•  Strong analytical and problem solving mindset
• Ability to collaborate effectively with engineers and multidisciplinary teams
• Clear and professional communication skills
• Flexibility to work efficiently in a prototyping environment
• Curious and eager to find new ideas to enhance activities in own job

CSEM mission and values

We believe in a future that is imagined, shared, and created TOGETHER. At CSEM, we don’t just innovate, we envision technologies that shape tomorrow. Since 1984, our purpose has remained constant: to harness science and technology for the benefit of society. Today, with over 650 people across Switzerland, we remain committed to our mission: to develop and transfer world-class solutions in digital technologies, precision manufacturing, and sustainable energy systems. In doing so, we empower Swiss industry to innovate and remain competitive.

Our strength is the excellence of our people. We believe that strong values support the successful development of our organization as well as the harmonious and balanced development of all our employees.

We are

• A unique place between research and industry at the cutting edge of new technologies
• An innovative, non-profit, and employee-driven company
• A dynamic, multidisciplinary, and multicultural environment
• A solar team focused on enabling solutions to energy challenges for a sustainable world

Working@CSEM means

• Being part of a passionate community.
• Flexibility, attractive working conditions, and opportunities of development.
• Benefit from a management style based on trust & feedback and that favors a work-life balance.

Our recruitment process

• First screening with one of our expert to assess your technical skills.
• HR interview to get to know you and explain what it is like to be part of the CSEM teams.
• You prepare a case and present to your future team members and top management (depending on the position assessment).

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity.
We look forward to receiving your complete application file via (CV, cover letter, certificates & diplomas) our job page. Preference will be given to professionals applying directly.