PhD Position Modelling and Optimization of Processes to Recycle Low-grade Biogenic Waste

Job description

As the Netherlands phases out fossil feedstocks, carbon becomes a critical raw material for everyday materials such as plastics, asphalt, composites, and batteries. While renewable carbon can come from biogenic waste, low-grade biowaste is often wet or contaminated and is therefore typically downcycled into low-value compost or animal feed, or incinerated, which also creates problematic bottom and fly ash residues and can spread persistent contaminants.

This leaves a major gap: how to valorize low-grade waste into high-value products beyond biofuels and biogas at industrially relevant scales?

The NWA-ORC funded consortium project ABEL addresses this challenge by combining technology development with process modelling and assessment across the waste value chain. The consortium includes 4 other research universities, 2 universities of applied sciences, and companies across the biomass value chain.

In this PhD project, you will develop state-of-the-art methodologies to:

• Design and scale up novel processes for the valorization of low-grade biowaste.
• Model transition pathways for the ABEL technologies to integrate into existing or new value chains.
• Minimize energy and resource use through efficient heat exchange, waste heat recovery, and optimized process conditions.
• Assess and reduce environmental impacts, such as greenhouse gas emissions.
• Validate models with literature and consortium data and in case studies defined by the consortium.

The PhD candidate will join the Circular PSE group led by Dr. Somoza-Tornos and work together with other researchers modelling emerging technologies for the defossilization of the chemical industry. They will also be part of the Process Systems Engineering (PSE) section at TU Delft, a professional team dedicated to advanced computational research and focused on advancing the PSE field to bring new insights and sustainable developments.

Job requirements

The ideal candidate will be an ambitious, proactive, reflective, and results-driven researcher. We are looking for the following:

• MSc degree in chemical engineering or a similar field.
• Strong background in chemical process modelling and design.
• Prior experience with process optimization is desirable.
• Prior experience with techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment is desirable but not required.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and writing skills.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional within an international community of professionals and students.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates are offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, structured as 2 employment contracts: an initial 1.5-year contract with an official go/no-go progress assessment within 15 months, followed by an additional 2.5-year contract subject to satisfactory progress and performance.

As a PhD candidate, you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff, and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related, and research skills.

TU Delft offers a customizable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, a monthly work costs contribution, and flexible work schedules. If relocation to the Netherlands is required, support is available through the Coming to Delft Service, including information, events, and dual career support for accompanying partners.