Internship: Assembling and Testing of Equipment for DAC Sorbent Lifetime Analysis

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’re excited to welcome a driven Assembly and Testing Intern to learn, grow, and go on this journey with us!

The project

Skytree builds modular and scalable technology for Direct Air Capture (DAC) of CO2 to combat climate change. As part of that technology, we design, develop, and build filters for CO2 capture using a sorbent material. Depending on the conditions of incoming air, the conformation of the filter, and the operating time, the DAC performance may decrease over time. However, our machines need to operate for extensive periods of time in the field without our filter material losing its performance. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the influence of different factors (temperature, pressure, etc.) on the sorbent lifetime. 

To do so, we have built a custom setup for accelerated lifetime testing, as well as a setup for performance testing of our DAC sorbents. Based on use of these setups, we have identified areas for improvement in performance, accuracy, and user-friendliness of these systems. We have designed the next generation of the set-up for lifetime analysis. In this internship project, the goal is to work together with the Testing and Infrastructure Engineers team on assembling the set-up, developing control software, designing and performing test routines and getting the set-up ready to be handed over to the RnD team. 

NOTE:

• This internship duration is 3-6 months, full-time, 40 hours /week.

• The start date is ASAP.

• This position does not meet the criteria for employer sponsorship therefore, we are unable to support work permit or residency applications.

You’ll make an impact by:

• Building novel experimental equipment: assembling the gas supply, vacuum system and electrical components, designing, running and documenting the testing procedures. 

• Creating user-friendly control software: the setup will be controlled by a custom-built software (built in DAQFactory SCADA suite). Part of this internship project will be to build the software operating sequences, design the UI and optimize the automation routines. 
  

Learning Objectives:

• Gain real-life hands-on experience building hardware and software for a novel experimental set-up.

• Get exposed to a cutting-edge science of DAC sorbent materials through daily interactions with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers. 

• Understand the inner workings of a dynamic clean-tech startup that prioritizes scientific and engineering excellence. 

Requirements

What we are looking for

• You have completed or are in the midst or at the end of a Master’s Degree in either/or:

  • A technical discipline (electrical engineering, automation, mechanical engineering etc.)

  • A software engineering/computer science discipline.  

• You are hands-on, have two right hands, enjoy working in a lab and like tinkering with electronics and hardware. Having proven experience is a plus. 

• Experience with or understanding of data analysis (Python), CAD software or SCADA systems is a plus. 

• 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.

• You are not in need of work permit / visa sponsorship

What can you expect

Apart from working with great colleagues and a competitive package, you can also expect:

• A unique start-up environment offering organic professional and personal growth at one of the most innovative cleantech companies in Amsterdam!

• A diverse (38+ nationalities) and fun team to work with.

• A monthly allowance of EUR 550 + lunch allowance and travel cost reimbursement

• Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, with the option to work from home once a week.

• A vibrant office close to the Science Park train station (5 minute walk!), as well as close to the highway.

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

• Enjoy a free lunch every Thursday, with Skytree picking up the bill, and stick around for after-work office drinks.

• Fun activities, organised by our very own Champagne Committee (e.g. a cooking class or Canal Adventures at the heart of the city centre).

• Stay fueled with tasty fruits and snacks - because work should be enjoyable too!

Questions?

Need some more info, or simply have a question for us? Don’t hesitate to reach out! Please send an email to [email protected]