Post-doc in chemical engineering: modelling of osmotic power generation - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Job description

Utilizing the osmotic energy that is released when mixing two streams with different salinity is a 65-year-old dream. Current methods to utilize osmotic energy are membrane-based technologies that suffer from membrane fouling. To overcome this issue, pre-treatment processes are employed prior to the membranes. However, current pre-treatment processes are highly energy intensive which reduces the net power output and limits the economic profitability of the process. The project aims at improving the pre-treatment process and to reduce its power demand through the use of ozonation.

The research includes both experimental and theoretical aspects. Experiments are conducted in collaboration with an industrial partner. Experiments aim at validating the compatibility of ozonation with membrane materials as well as the effectiveness of ozonation as a pre-treatment method. The theoretical work is the main task of the post-doc candidate. The theoretical work includes the development of a detailed process model for membrane fouling and the analysis of the pre-treatment process on the system level. Identification of potential locations for osmotic power generation in Scandinavia is another part of the theoretical work.

The project is funded by the Swedish Energy Agency. The offered post-doc position is for the duration of 18 months and includes funding for attending conferences and publishing the results.

What we offer

• A position at a leading technical university that generates knowledge and skills for a sustainable future
• An international team of engaged and motivated scientists working in close collaboration with industry and academic partners
• Attractive workplace in the center of Stockholm
• Help to relocate and be settled in Sweden and at KTH

Read more about what it is like to work at KTH

Qualifications

Requirements

• A doctoral degree or an equivalent foreign degree, obtained within the last three years prior to the application deadline (Whit some exceptions for special reasons such as periods of sick or parental leave, kindly indicate if such reason exists in your resume).
• Proven record of process modelling and numerical simulation.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in mathematical modelling, preferably applied to membrane separation or other separation processes or related processes in the area of chemical reaction engineering, biotechnology or particle technology.
• Skilled in developing mathematical models based on first principles that allow for the interpretation of experimental data and identification of process characteristics.
• Knowledge of numerical methods and programming in MATLAB and/or C/C++
• Basic knowledge in flowsheet calculations using common software packages.
• High level of independence in conducting research and collaborating with industrial partners.
• Openness towards new research methodologies to tackle eminent problems related to sustainable energy technology.
• Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with a particular focus on gender equality.

The successful candidate is expected to actively take part in the academic activities at the Department of Chemical Engineering, including teaching on the Bachelor, Master and PhD level, supervision of Master thesis projects, and the writing of research grants. Great emphasis will be placed on personal competency.

Trade union representatives

You will find contact information to trade union representatives at KTH's webbpage.

Application

Log into KTH's recruitment system in order to apply to this position. You are the main responsible to ensure that your application is complete according to the ad.

The application must include:

• Cover letter, stating your motivation to conduct research in the mentioned area, your academic interests and how they relate to your previous studies and future goals.
• CV including relevant professional experience and knowledge.
• Copy of diplomas and grades from your previous university studies. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents have not been issued in any of these languages.
• Web link to (a) the most relevant publication and (b) doctoral thesis (in case there is no web version a pdf of the thesis abstract shall be attach to application).
• Contact information for two reference persons. We reserve the right to contact references only for selected candidates.

Your complete application must be received at KTH no later than the last day of application, midnight CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The position offered is for, at the most, two years.

A position as a postdoctoral fellow is a time-limited qualified appointment focusing mainly on research, intended as a first career step after a dissertation.

Others

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Disclaimer: In case of discrepancy between the Swedish original and the English translation of the job announcement, the Swedish version takes precedence.