Within the Membrane Surface Science Group (MSuS), part of the Membrane Science & Technology (MST) cluster (www.membrane.nl), and the MnF group, part of the department of Molecules and Materials, of the University of Twente, The Netherlands we have a vacancy for a PhD student:

'Sustainable and highly stable ion exchange membranes for industrial applications'

A PhD project is available regarding the production and characterization of new and sustainable ion-exchange membranes. Membranes play a critical role in the production of safe drinking water and the treatment of human waste streams, but they also take on an increasingly important role in industrial electrochemical processes. This project will investigate a highly novel approach allowing the production of highly stable ion exchange membranes through simple hot-pressing of polyelectrolyte complexes. In the project, these new membranes will be designed, fine-tuned and produced to combine high stability with excellent separation properties. There will be a focus on connecting material properties to membrane performance. Moreover, the performance in electrically driven processes will be studied in detail to be compared with commercially available membranes. Anion-exchange membranes with a high chemical stability are essential to allow electrochemical conversion of water into H­2O2 under the required alkaline conditions. This PhD project is part of the larger HYPER project where we will work closely together with experts in catalysis (Wageningen University) and process design (Wageningen Research).

This project will take place in an international research group with a strong collaborative atmosphere. As part of the PhD program, you would have the opportunity to receive further education within the Twente Graduate School. Furthermore, you may actively contribute in the teaching program, e.g. by supervision of BSc and MSc assignments and teaching assistance.

You have a Master's degree, preferably with distinction (or international equivalent), in Physical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science or a closely related discipline. You are motivated and enthusiastic about working on the interface of fundamental and applied research. International experience is a bonus.

Preferably you have experience with complexation driven processes, phase separation, membrane science and/or electochemistry. You have the ability to work independently and as a member of a research team, while demonstrating a collaborative attitude.

You are able to work in an interdisciplinary team, are eager to learn new skills, have an academic mind-set and are driven by curiosity. You have very good communication skills both written and spoken. English language proficiency is a must and a written test, as well as a scientific presentation, will be part of the interview procedure.

The University of Twente offers a stimulating work environment in an area of applied, forefront research. When fulfilling a PhD position at the UT, you will get the status of junior scientist. You will have an employment contract for the duration of 4 years and can participate in all employee benefits the UT offers. The gross monthly salary starts with € 2.434,- in the first year and increases to € 3.111,- in the fourth year of your employment. Additionally, the University of Twente provides excellent facilities for professional and personal development, a holiday allowance (amount to 8%), an end of year bonus of 8.3%. A high-quality training programme is part of the agreement. The research has to result in a PhD thesis at the end of the employment period. The start date is as soon as possible, but by mutual agreement.

The Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.

As an employer, the TNW Faculty offers jobs that matter. We equip you as a staff member to shape new opportunities both for yourself and for our society. With our Faculty, you will be part of a leading tech university that is changing our world for the better. We offer an open, inclusive and entrepreneurial climate, in which we encourage you to make healthy choices, for example, with our flexible, customisable conditions.