A 6-month full-time MSc thesis or research internship opportunity is available in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, at Wetsus, the European Center of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology.
This multidisciplinary project combines thermodynamics, microbiology and sustainable engineering to investigate biofouling formation in heat exchangers when using greywater as a heat source.
📍 Location
Leeuwarden, Netherlands 🇳🇱
📅 Internship Period
1 April 2026 – 30 September 2026
📅 Application Deadline
15 March 2026
⏳ Duration
6 months
🕒 Commitment
Full-time
💰 Compensation
Financial compensation provided
🎓 Field of Study
Engineering and/or Technology
🔬 About the Project
Greywater includes household wastewater streams excluding toilet flushing water, such as water from showers, washing machines and dishwashers. This stream contains significant thermal energy, making it attractive for heat recovery using heat pumps.
However, greywater also contains microorganisms and nutrients. When heat exchangers remain in prolonged contact with greywater, biofouling layers can form on exchanger surfaces. These biological layers reduce heat transfer efficiency and negatively affect overall system performance.
This project aims to:
🧪 Investigate biofouling formation mechanisms in greywater heat recovery systems
🌡 Analyze impacts on heat transfer performance
🦠 Study microbiological activity and nutrient dynamics
⚙ Develop strategies to mitigate or prevent biofouling
🌍 Contribute to more sustainable and efficient heat recovery technologies
The project is ideal for students interested in combining energy systems engineering with microbiological research in a real-world sustainability context.
👤 Candidate Profile
✔ MSc students in Engineering, Environmental Technology, Energy Systems or related fields
✔ Interest in thermodynamics and microbiology
✔ Strong motivation for multidisciplinary research
✔ No prior professional experience required
📩 How to Apply
Upload your CV and motivation letter via the official application system:
https://www.wetsus.nl/thesis-internship-investigating-biofouling-on-heat-exchangers-when-using-greywater-as-a-heat-source/
For further questions, contact:
shuoguang.yang@wetsus.nl
⚠️ Important Notice
1️⃣ Source of Information
This announcement has been prepared based on the information provided by the project coordinator.
2️⃣ Responsibility for Content
The project coordinator is solely responsible for the accuracy, details, and updates of the opportunity content.
3️⃣ Right to Modify or Withdraw
Coordinating organisations reserve the right to make changes after publication — including dates, activity details, or application deadlines — or to withdraw the announcement entirely.
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💡 Final Note:
All listings are shared for informational purposes only. Please always verify details directly through the official project coordinator or programme website before applying.
