This UArizona project investigates an integrated membrane distillation crystallization (MDC) - hybrid concentrated solar power (CSP)/PV collector system to realize a self-sustained, zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) technology for inland and off-grid applications. Faculty involved in this project include Dr. Andrea Achilli, Dr. Robert Norwood and Dr. Kerri Hickenbottom. Learn more about Dr. Hickenbottom's work, visit her-lab.com.
The Solar Desalination project is looking for an enthusiastic IESTE interns to work at an off-campus site conducting research coupling Membrane Distillation with Concentrated Solar Power/Photovoltaics for renewable energy solar desalination. This work will be focused on performing daily experiments, maintaining, and upgrading the equipment on site, and daily data processing and analysis.
Key Internship Requirements:
- Ability to travel to an off-campus location for experiments (operation is from dawn to dusk). Note: the site is not available via public transportation.
- Be able to work unsupervised and complete independent tasks.
- Strong communication skills.
- Experience or willingness to work in summer heat
- Experience or willingness to work with a diverse team.
- Can follow instructions and attention to detail.
- Can lift large objects up to 50 lbs and work in tight spaces.
- Working knowledge or eagerness to learn Membrane Distillation processes and operation, microcontrollers and automation controls, and pilot scale renewable energy systems.
Preferred Experience
- Experience with python (preferrable) or excel spreadsheets.
- Knowledge of thermal cycles.
- Familiarity with water treatment processes.
- Familiarity with hand tools.
- Experience with data collection and recording.
- Basic programming skills preferred for data processing and system automation controls.