Already since decades researchers attempt to mimic biological cell membranes to create membranes with well-defined, perpendicular pores applicable in large-scale technological applications such as water purification and selective ion removal. Recently, however, a proof-of-principle was given of inducing molecular organization into membranes with homogeneous uniform straight-through pores by soft confinement of liquid crystalline (LC) polymers. Subsequent crosslinking rigidifies the structure and results in flexible, freestanding films with vertically aligned ordered pores in the 1 nm range. This research explores the above-described concept for membrane applications for water purification and selective ion removal. Different LC polymers and chemical modifications will be used to set the operating window of the concept for membrane applications. After systematic characterization and performance evaluation in the laboratory, the performance of the developed membranes will be tested using real industrial feeds from the industrial project partners in the food and dairy industry.

We are looking for highly motivated, ambitious and enthusiastic researchers with a M.Sc. degree preferably in chemistry, chemical engineering or a related topic with a strong physical chemistry background and scientific attitude. Candidates should have excellent experimental and theoretical skills.

We prefer candidates with a good team spirit, who like to work in an internationally oriented, social environment. Fluency in English is a requirement. An interview and a scientific presentation are part of the selection procedure.

We offer a challenging job for four years in a highly motivated team at a dynamic and ambitious environment. The research will be conducted at Wetsus, European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology in Leeuwarden in direct collaboration with the Membrane Materials and Processes group, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e).

The research institute Wetsus, offers a platform for innovative, truly multidisciplinary collaboration between universities and companies on water technology. Wetsus is located in the coastal area in the northern part of the Netherlands.

The chair Membrane Materials and Processes at the department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry at Eindhoven University of Technology focuses on the design and development of polymer membranes to control mass transport in sustainable processes. The chair combines and integrates materials chemistry and process technology for sustainable processes. Application areas are water and energy, with a strong focus on the recovery and reuse of resources, the valorization of waste streams and energy efficiency. 'Closing cycles' and 'value from waste' are leading themes in the research program. Next to fundamental academic research, application-oriented research in close collaboration with the industry is stimulated.

The TU/e is located in one of the smartest regions of the world and part of the European technology hotspot 'Brainport Eindhoven'; well-known because of many high-tech industries and start-ups.

Both Wetsus and the TU/e offer outstanding state of the art facilities and equipment. You will be part of a highly multidisciplinary collaboration where expertise of a variety of disciplines comes together. The gross monthly salary in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of the Dutch Universities (CAO NU), starts with € 2222,= in the first year to € 2840,= in the fourth year. Besides this the TU/e has holiday- and end-of the year allowances, an excellent package of attractive benefits for employees and a modern sports complex. Assistance for finding accommodation can be given.