Profile: You must have a PhD in heterogeneous catalysis, or more broadly in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields (PhD diploma before April 15, 2024). A focus on liquid phase upgrading of bio-based chemicals is a plus. Expertise in catalysts preparation and characterization, etc. is a plus. Hands on expertise on GC analytics, kinetic studies, mechanistic studies is a plus. Experience with biomass valorization, biorefinery, bio-based chemistry in general would be appreciated. Relevant experience in industrial/applied chemistry would be appreciated too.
Context and mission: You would work on a project dealing with the production of bio-based solvents for the agro-chemical industry, starting from C5 platform chemicals and using metal-based heterogeneous catalysts. You would work on catalyst development, characterization, testing, and optimization. You would be involved in process up-scaling, possibly including a transfer to continuous flow mode. You would be in charge of preliminary assays on the formulation and testing of industrially relevant products using the produced solvent. You would work half time in an academic lab and half time at the company. This is an opportunity to work on an applied project, with tangible potential for industrial application and commercialization, while simultaneously working on the more fundamental sides of the challenge.
Location:
- UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve (group of Prof. Damien Debecker), here.
-
MINAGRO, Mont-Saint-Guibert (under the lead of Arnold De Maere), here.
Timeline:
- co-application for a BEWARE funding in early April 2024 (post-doctoral candidate, academic partner, industrial partner).
- Decision early summer 2024.
- Start of the project in September 2024.
- 3-year project.
Salary (very rough estimation as it depends on CV, seniority, etc.): ~5000 €/month gross (~3000 €/month net) + mobility allowance and social security benefits (see info on the BEWARE website).
Applications: send a CV and a short motivation letter to [email protected]. Interviews of selected candidates will be organized early March.
Note that the application we submit will be linked to the candidate; if granted, we can only hire that candidate and we don’t get any funding if the candidate changes plan. Thus, motivation towards this project and commitment to the announced timeline is essential.