The challenge:
Increasing Lithium (Li) concentration in pegmatite ores requires a combination of advanced image processing and innovative sorting techniques based on interactions of magnetic fields and solid particles.

The Horizon Europe LICORNE project involves 16 partners with researchers from universities, research centres, and industries, working closely together to reach a common goal: to establish the first-ever Li supply chain in Europe, increasing the European Li processing and refining capacity for producing battery-grade chemicals from ores, geothermal and continental brines, tailings and off-specification cathode materials (waste). The Delft University of Technology has designed innovative sorting technologies like opto-magnetically induced sorting to concentrate crushed pegmatites and improve the beneficiation process from 75% of pegmatite concentration to around 90% at optimized conditions. In LICORNE, we aim to develop beneficiation technologies able to increase the Li concentration in pegmatite ores so that about 15% of gangue could be prevented from entering the downstream process reducing energy and reagents.

Research in the Resources and Recycling group has a reputation for moving innovative physics into industrial reality, resulting in six spin-out companies to date. The project offers the opportunity for a new postdoc to join our team and work together with innovative industries involved in the LICORNE project.

The position:
The project offers the opportunity for a postdoc to join our team and work together with other researchers involved in the LICORNE project. The postdoc will focus on image processing for particles’ recognition and the phenomena involved in printhead design/optimization (e.g., drops formation and dynamics, and optionally CFD) to optimize the design of innovative sorting equipment and test it. The research involves both experiments and some modelling. The experimental part includes electronic process control and optionally physical processes such as fluid dynamics and mechanics of particle-particle interactions.

Our group seeks an enthusiastic postdoc with a background in applied physics, electrical engineering, or a related field. Previous research experience in one or more Electronics and Signal Processing areas are required. The research involves building a set-up and performing experiments in the lab. You are interested in the specific fields of engineering and physics to be studied, and you are willing to assist in evaluating and troubleshooting equipment. You have a good comprehension of English, both spoken and written. Candidates should have an affinity for innovation and be willing to work in multidisciplinary teams. Knowledge of process technology, ink-jet printing and modelling is an advantage.

Fixed-term contract: 2 years.

The TU Delft offers an attractive, 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. Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities. 

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 and aim to be as inclusive as possible (see our Code of Conduct). Together, we imagine, invent and create solutions using technology to have a positive impact on a global scale.

Challenge. Change. Impact! 

Faculty Civil Engineering and Geosciences

The Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences (CEG) is committed to outstanding international research and education in the field of civil engineering, applied earth sciences, traffic and transport, water technology, and delta technology. Our research feeds into our educational programmes and covers societal challenges such as climate change, energy transition, resource depletion, urbanisation and the availability of clean water, conducted  in close cooperation with a wide range of research institutions. CEG is convinced that Open Science helps to achieve our goals and supports its scientists in integrating Open Science in their research practice. The Faculty of CEG comprises 28 research groups in the following seven departments: Materials Mechanics Management & Design, Engineering Structures, Geoscience and Engineering, Geoscience and Remote Sensing, Transport & Planning, Hydraulic Engineering and Water Management.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Civil Engineering & Geosciences.

The Department of Engineering Structures provides education and research in the area of civil infrastructure and buildings. The department’s approach is based on science/fundamentals (mechanics and material science), deepened by engineering (concrete, steel, composite, timber, road and railway structures) and broadened by design (integral design, construction design, zero-material design, and design-build). The department provides basic education in the BSc civil engineering programme and three MSc programmes.

Resources and Recycling is a research group with strong links to the minerals processing and recycling industries. The group’s ambition is to create breakthroughs by applying fundamental science to innovative processes and implementing them in collaboration with the industry. The ongoing research projects combine theoretical insights and modelling with experiments in the group’s laboratory and pilot plants.