The Sustainable Process Technology (SPT) group, from the faculty of Science and Technology (S&T) of the University of Twente, is searching for a PhD candidate for the LNG-ZERO project. In LNG-ZERO the objective is to avoid any CO2 emission to the atmosphere, implying that the CO2 level in exhaust gases must be reduced to around 400 ppm. Moreover, the CO2 removed must be captured, liquefied, and stored in an energy efficient way, utilizing compact equipment, able to handle the ship dynamic operation. Envisaged is a sorbent based technology for deep removal of CO2, integrated with a separate bulk CO2 removal step. Research comprises process development (using existing sorbent) as well as sorbent characterization (esp. stability) and sorbent development, targeting low cost, stable sorbent materials, suitable for deep removal of CO2. Additionally, system integration is important for overall energy efficiency. The technology to be developed will be demonstrated in cooperation with project partners. The candidate for this PhD position should preferably have experience in process/reactor modelling, materials development, adsorption/separation technologies and have a MSc degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry/Materials Sciences, Applied Physics or Mechanical Engineering.

We seek highly motivated, early-career researcher with a MSc degree on Chemical Engineering, Chemical Science and Technology. Programing experience (MATLAB, Python) and process simulation (e.g. Aspen +) is highly valued. Our ideal candidate enjoys working in an internationally and multi-disciplinary team contributing to the research of team-members. We welcome strong interpersonal skills and interest in sharing knowledge at conferences and meetings. Proficiency in English is required, both spoken and written.

• Full-time 4-year PhD position
• The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in a stimulating scientific environment
• Salary and conditions in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities. The PhD salary is € 2.443,- in the first year and increases to € 3.122,- in the fourth year.
• Full status as an employee, including pension and health care benefits.
• A stimulating, modern research environment with world-class research facilities, including access to the NanoLab in the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and High Pressure Lab (hogedruklab).
• A personal development program within the Twente Graduate School.
• Researchers from outside the Netherlands may qualify for a tax-free allowance equal to 30% of their taxable salary (the 30% tax regulation).
• The number of holiday hours with full-time employment is 232 hours per calendar year..
• A holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

The Sustainable Process Technology (SPT) group is part of the Faculty of Science and Technology, TNW, at University of Twente. We develop experimental and modelling research in the areas of biomass conversion, affinity separations, plastic recycling, water and CO2 capture and conversion. We combine our expertise in different disciplines (process design, chemistry, catalysis, modelling, engineering) to contribute to the development of sustainable chemical processes.