Research group

At the Chemical Process Intensification group, we focus on making chemical processes smarter, smaller and more efficient. We work based on two main pillars; experiments and numerical modelling. The numerical models typically give us insight in the relevant physical phenomena, whereas experiments can serve for validation and verification of the models, as well as for concept demonstration purposes. We operate in various fields, e.g. Direct Air Capture, Bubbly Flows, Fluidized Bed Technology, Electrification, etc, with 10-15 researchers.

Background

Cake formation in fluidized beds refers to the build-up of a dense, often cohesive layer of particles, typically on surfaces such as the walls of fluidized bed reactors, or within the bed itself. This phenomenon can significantly affect the efficiency and operation of fluidized bed systems (e.g. reducing heat transfer efficiency, changing the hydrodynamics), which are commonly used in industries like chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, and polymer manufacturing. We seek to understand the mechanism, and want to understand the role and effect of anti-fouling agents as a prevention measure.

Job description

We are seeking a talented and highly motivated PhD Candidate to join our team in studying the impact of anti-fouling agents on the cake-formation process in polymer fluidization. The successful candidate will conduct experimental research using advanced fluidized bed reactor setups (e.g. high-temperature fluidization, characterization of triboelectrification), and develop predictive models to relate key parameters to the fouling behaviour. Discrete particle modelling will be performed to understand the details of electrostatics generation and transport through particle interactions. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions for fouling remediation in industrial applications.

The PhD position has a focus on multi-physics modelling for multiphase systems. The PhD position is part of a DPI project with industrial partners, and will work closely together with a postdoc researcher on the same project.

Researchers of our group participate in various courses related to their field of work, take part in national and international conferences and congresses, and report to the project sponsoring consortium throughout the PhD contract. Besides the project described above, a small part of your time will be tasked with assisting with chemical engineering education duties.

We are looking for talented, motivated and enthusiastic MSc or engineer with a background in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering or applied physics. Experience with or affinity with least multiphase systems, in particular fluidization technology, is essential. The ideal candidate also has demonstrated proficiency in numerical modeling, particularly Discrete Element Models (DEM), and a solid understanding of electrostatic interactions in fluidized systems. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team are required. Experience with experimental setups and data analysis for heat transfer and hydrodynamics in fluidized beds will be highly valued.

We're searching for an excellent candidate with proven capabilities who recently finished his/her master (MSc) or will obtain his/her MSc soon. Knowledge, experience and an affinity with electrochemistry are appreciated. Moreover, excellent communication skills in English are vital.

We offer a challenging job for four years in a highly motivated team at a dynamic and ambitious University. You will be part of a highly profiled multidisciplinary collaboration where expertise of a variety of disciplines comes together.

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. A place to be for talented scientists!

We offer you a meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,872 max. €3,670).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.

Eindhoven University of Technology is an internationally top-ranking university in the Netherlands that combines scientific curiosity with a hands-on attitude. Our spirit of collaboration translates into an open culture and a top-five position in collaborating with advanced industries. Fundamental knowledge enables us to design solutions for the highly complex problems of today and tomorrow.

Curious to hear more about what it's like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Visit our website for more information about the application process or the conditions of employment. You can also contact HR Services, email HRServices.Helix@tue.nl.

For more detailed information about this vacancy you can contact dr.ir. I. Roghair (Ivo) e-mail: i.roghair@tue.nl .

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button.
The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

The application consists of an interview (in person or online), and a second round consists of a presentation (in person) and meetups with several members of the group.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.