Key Skills

Job Description

Location: Maastricht, The Netherlands Duration: >3 months Start date: preferably before January 2027 Type: Internship – hours arranged by student’s needs About Print the Planet Green (PPG) Consortium We research and develop 3D printing filament by repurposing locally discarded eggshells and convert them into valuable products through 3D printing. This concept emphasizes community and collective responsibility to keep the planet green by thinking and acting locally. It revolves around strengthening local circular recycling, reducing our ecological footprint, and delivering innovative, sustainable solutions. About EGGXPERT As the leading project manager within PPG consortium, EGGXPERT is a Maastricht-based small company that transforms eggshell waste into high-value feedstocks and products, creating both economic and environmental benefits through creative thinking and innovations. About the internship We are looking for a motivated LCA Intern to evaluate the comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the use of EGGXPERT's eggshells (WonderLime™) as a bio-mineral filler in PHAs filaments for 3D printing. Your work will help us better understand the environmental hotspots in our value chain, identify opportunities for improvement, and evaluate the potential environmental benefits of our materials compared with conventional (bio)-polymer alternatives. Your responsibilities System Boundary and Scope Definition: Define the scope of the LCA from cradle to gate for WonderLime™ eggshell-based filament. Life Cycle Inventory (LCI): Collect and quantify data regarding the energy, material inputs, and emissions involved in processing WonderLime™ and compounding it into filament. Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA): Evaluate the environmental footprint (such as carbon footprint, energy consumption, and resource depletion) using standardized LCA methodologies. Comparative Analysis: Compare the environmental impacts of the eggshell-based filament with conventional 3D printing filaments across different workable filler percentages and let-down ratios. In the final report, summarize findings, discuss limitations, and provide recommendations for improving the processing and performance. In the selected application, discuss why the ESP could be preferred over the standard material, considering both economic impacts (i.e. cost reduction, efficiency), and social or environmental impacts (i.e. reduced environmental footprint, sustainability). You are a good fit if you have: Currently pursuing a master's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Industrial Ecology, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field with experience in LCA study. Good understanding of LCA methodology and environmental impact assessment. Analytical mindset with good research and data-handling skills. Ability to work independently and take initiative. An interest in Life Cycle Assessment, circular economy, and sustainable material innovation. Good communication skills in English. What we offer This is an unpaid internship opportunity. We offer a valuable hands-on learning experience, with the opportunity to contribute to real-world material innovation and sustainability research within an innovative startup and bigger consortium group. Hands-on experience with LCA methodology and the assessment of emerging bio-based materials. Insight into eggshell-based material innovation, circular economy, and sustainable product development. A collaborative and entrepreneurial working environment in a small team. Flexible work hour arrangements. Interested? We'd love to hear from you! Send your CV and a short motivation to [email protected]

Core Responsibilities

Define and conduct a cradle-to-gate Life Cycle Assessment of eggshell-based filament, including collecting inventory data and evaluating environmental impacts. Compare the filament with conventional alternatives, then report findings, limitations, and recommendations that address environmental, economic, and social considerations.

Requirements

Applicants should be pursuing a master's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Industrial Ecology, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, and have experience with LCA studies. They should understand LCA methodology and environmental impact assessment, have strong analytical, research, and data-handling skills, work independently, and communicate well in English.

Benefits

• Hands-On Learning Experience
• Flexible Work Hours
• Collaborative Working Environment