The pulp and paper industry faces major economic and environmental challenges due to its high energy consumption. In particular, the drying of wet fibre webs is highly energy intensive. An innovative solution approach is the implementation of biotechnological fibre modification, which enhances dewatering efficiency and thereby reduces subsequent energy demand. Cellulases and their cellulose-binding domains can be modified through protein engineering techniques. This Master thesis will investigate whether these engineered proteins, when immobilize on cellulose fibers, can change the surface properties of paper, specifically, by increasing hydrophobicity and reducing water absorption. If successful, this approach could accelerate the energy-intensive drying process and enable more cost-efficient paper manufacturing.
Molecular biology (PCR, cloning), protein production in E. coli, protein purification, biochemical methods (SDS-PAGE, affinity chromatography, protein binding studies etc.), analytical methods, microscopy, performing dewatering tests, measuring paper properties (e.g., contact angle measurement, thermogravimetric analysis).
– Master student (f/m/d) of Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or similar studies
– Experience in protein production and purification is advantageous
– Basic knowledge of molecular biological methods (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis) is advantageous
– Fluent in English and/or German (written and spoken)
– Basic knowledge of MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
– Highly motivated and independent, with the drive to learn and develop
In the Schwaneberg group, you will work alongside a highly interdisciplinary, internationally diverse team with strong expertise in integrated protein engineering. Close cooperation with “Modellfabrik Papier” makes the work very industry application-oriented.
Please note:
The position listed here is not a job posting from Modellfabrik Papier, but rather a job opening at our research partner, RWTH Aachen University.
Duration:
The position is open from the earliest 01.04.2026. For the Master’s thesis, a 6-month period is planned; a previous internship is possible (planned for 3 months).
Feel free to contact us via e-mail together with your CV and current transcript of records.
Dr. Marisa Sárria Pereira de Passos (m.sarria@biotec.rwth-aachen.de)
Dr. Florian Bourdeaux (f.bourdeaux@biotec.rwth-aachen.de)
Institute of Biotechnology, RWTH Aachen University
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