A vacancy is available for a PhD student in the field of high temperature fluidization within the Chemical Process Intensification group at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), The Netherlands.

Position: PhD student

Irène Curie Fellowship: No

Department(s): Chemical Engineering and Chemistry

FTE: 1.0

Date off: 25/09/2024

Reference number: V37.7678

Job Description

Research Group

The Chemical Process Intensification group focuses on making chemical processes smarter, smaller, and more efficient. Our work is based on two main pillars: experiments and numerical modelling. Numerical models provide insights into relevant physical phenomena, while experiments validate and verify these models and demonstrate concepts. We operate in various fields, including Direct Air Capture, Bubbly Flows, Fluidized Bed Technology, Metal Fuels, and Electrification, with 10-15 researchers.

Background

The global energy landscape is shifting from fossil fuels to sustainable sources like solar and wind. However, the intermittent nature of these renewable sources necessitates efficient energy storage solutions. Iron powder offers a promising alternative for high-density energy storage, enabling energy storage and on-demand heat release. A key challenge is the carbon-neutral reduction of iron oxides back into iron using green hydrogen. In the CIRCL project, we aim to address this by developing and scaling up a fluidized bed process that efficiently reduces iron oxides while maintaining necessary powder properties.

Job Description

We seek a highly motivated and talented PhD candidate to join our research team at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). The candidate will advance the understanding of high-temperature fluidization in the context of iron powder energy storage. The research will focus on the hydrodynamics of fluidized beds operating at high temperatures and in the presence of hydrogen gas. The successful candidate will work with a unique experimental setup that allows high-resolution optical access to a pseudo-2D fluidized bed, operating at temperatures up to 800 °C. Additionally, we aim to develop a new theoretical framework to describe fluidization under these extreme conditions, considering factors such as inter-particle forces, van der Waals interactions, and electrostatic effects. CFD-DEM modelling (discrete particle modelling) will be used, based on a model already present in our group, but requiring expansion and validation for this study.

This PhD position involves collaboration with other members of our research group and the Power and Flow group at the Mechanical Engineering faculty. We also work closely with industrial users of metal fuels technology.

Researchers in our group participate in various courses related to their field, attend national and international conferences, and report to the project user committee throughout the PhD contract. A small part of your time will be dedicated to assisting with chemical engineering education duties.

Job Requirements

We seek talented, motivated, and enthusiastic MSc graduates or engineers with backgrounds in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or applied physics. A strong foundation in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and/or particle technology is essential. The ideal candidate has demonstrated proficiency in numerical modelling, particularly Discrete Element Models (DEM). Comfort with experimental setups and data analysis is important. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team are required. Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are essential.

Conditions of Employment

We offer a challenging four-year job in a highly motivated team at a dynamic and ambitious university. You will be part of a multidisciplinary collaboration where various disciplines' expertise converges.

The TU/e is located in one of the smartest regions globally and is part of the European technology hotspot ‘Brainport Eindhoven,’ known for its high-tech industries and start-ups—a prime location for talented scientists!

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

• 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 (including 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 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.

Information and Application

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 today's and tomorrow's complex problems.

Curious to hear more about life 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 via email at HRServices.Helix@tue.nl.

For more detailed information about this vacancy, you can contact Dr. Ir. I. Roghair (Ivo) via email: 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 describing your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• A curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references.

The application process includes an interview (in person or online) and a second round consisting of a presentation (in person) and meetups with several group members.

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