To meet environmental targets for CO2 emissions set forth, alternative, low-carbon emission approaches to existing manufacturing processes for base chemicals are required. This necessitates re-invention of processes that are in use since early days of the industrial revolution. Particularly novel separation methods for products from electrochemical synthesis routes need to be developed & demonstrated at pilot scale for industrial uptake. Within TU Delft, we collaborate with industrial partners and multiple research groups in the  Pro2Tech institute. The position will form a bridge between research groups in the Chemical Engineering department, and the Process & Energy department of the Mechanical Engineering faculty.

To scale up CO2 electrolysis & utilization technologies, we are looking for a proactive, process engineering-minded postdoc to join our team. We expect both scientific and engineering work, that will focus on first classifying separation technologies available for isolating CO2 electrolysis products. Based on the gathered knowledge, the postdoc will identify separation processes most suitable for scale up for products from CO2 electrolysis. Furthermore, the postdoc will demonstrate integration of continuous lab scale end-to-end process from a CO2 rich feed to a chemical intermediate.

You will work together with a diverse team of scientists interested in electrochemical conversion and separation technologies. The team consists of four scientists Monique van der Veen, David Vermaas, Ruud Kortlever and Burak Eral collaborating in the context of Pro2Tech. Given the rapid development and large interest in the technology, we expect you to publish in scientific literature or present the technology to the general public, hence good communication skills in addition to scientific and engineering talent is required.

• A PhD degree, in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, applied physics, physical chemistry or similar.
• Experience with classical and electrochemical/physiochemical separations (e.g. adsorbtion, cryo-distillation, membrane separations, pseudo capacitative deionization etc.).
• Strong system-thinking skills: overviewing the whole process.
• Hands on experimental experience with electrochemical systems is considered a plus.
• Knowledge of process technology.
• Pro-active and creative mind-set.
• Fluent in English. Speaking Dutch is a plus.
• Starting soon is possible.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, a discount on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

For international applicants we offer the Coming to Delft Service and Partner Career Advice to assist you with your relocation. An International Children's Centre offers childcare and there is an international primary school.

Delft University of Technology

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world-famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem-solvers, both in business and in a social context.

At TU Delft we embrace diversity as one of our core values and we actively engage to be a university where you feel at home and can flourish. We value different perspectives and qualities. We believe this makes our work more innovative, the TU Delft community more vibrant and the world more just. Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale. That is why we invite you to apply. Your application will receive fair consideration.

Challenge. Change. Impact!

Faculty Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the 3mE faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

3mE is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in 3mE’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical, Maritime and Materials Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.