RI: Developing a light sensor array

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7. March 2025

We are looking for a motivated master’s student for an exciting research internship in the field of developing a multispectral light sensor array.

Background

Accurately measuring light parameters such as lux, photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), irradiance, UV, and IR can be expensive. Commercial sensors are also often calibrated for only a specific spectral range and measure light only in the plane in which they are oriented.

To overcome these limitations, we are developing a dome-shaped sensor array that combines multiple low-cost yet precise sensors covering various spectral ranges (for example, Sensor Example 1 and Sensor Example 2).

This project encompasses both hardware design and implementation, offering hands-on experience in sensor integration, circuit design, and microcontroller programming.

Your Tasks

During the internship, you will be responsible for:

  1. Design and development of the sensor array

    • Selection and integration of sensors to measure visible light, infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
    • Ensuring the sensor array has at least five different orientations (e.g., horizontal, tilted to the west, east, south, etc.), preferably with additional tilt angles for more comprehensive coverage.
    • Developing the circuitry for data transmission from the sensors to an ESP32 or a comparable microcontroller.

  2. Mechanical assembly of the system

    • Planning and overseeing the manufacturing of mechanical components (e.g., 3D-printed parts).
    • Designing and producing PCBs (printed circuit boards) for sensor integration.
    • Assembling the final sensor array prototype.

  3. Feasibility study and data validation

    • Implementing firmware to capture and process sensor data for reliable measurement.
    • Developing plausibility checks to compare sensor data with reference instruments.
    • Integrating location and orientation information for each sensor to ensure correct spatial assignment of measurements.

Your Profile

We are looking for a master’s student with the following qualifications:

  • A background in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or a related field.
  • Experience with sensor integration, microcontrollers (ESP32, Arduino, etc.), or embedded programming (C/C++, Python).
  • Basic knowledge of circuit design and PCB layout (e.g., with Altium).
  • Ideally, experience in mechanical design and prototyping (e.g., 3D printing, CAD modeling).
  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to work independently.

What We Offer

  • Hands-on experience with cutting-edge sensor technology.
  • The chance to participate in an interdisciplinary research project with direct practical applications.
  • The opportunity to develop valuable hardware and software skills in the fields of embedded systems and environmental sensing.

This internship is an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in sensor technology and to contribute to an innovative research project.

If you are interested, please send us your CV, a current transcript of records, and a brief cover letter.

We look forward to your application! 😊

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