BELGIUM; PhD Position in Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis of Biomass
Job description
PhD student in catalytic fast pyrolysis of biomass
This first PhD project in the new Laboratory for Bioresources Processing will be dealing with controlled liquefaction of (dried) biomass by a process called catalytic fast pyrolysis. The overall objective of the proposed project is to determine and analyze the possible effects of selected catalysts in biomass fast pyrolysis reactions.
These catalysts can be either applied inside the pyrolysis reactor by partially replacing the inert heat carrier, or in a separate catalytic reactor, close-coupled to treat the produced pyrolysis vapours.
The intention is to steer the oxygen functionalities of the condensed pyrolysis liquids (bio-oil) in a way that the upgraded liquids can be integrated partially or completely in the feedstock of traditional petroleum refinery units (FCC, hydrocracker, etc.). Such a co-feeding of bio-liquids will enable a seamless introduction of bio-fuels into the existing market for transportation fuels.
Within the first year of the PhD project a small continuous pyrolysis unit (300 g biomass per hour) will be erected in the laboratory to serve as a basic experimental unit for the appointed PhD student. Experimental variables include the type of biomass, the pyrolysis temperature, the type of catalyst, the catalyst/sand flow ratio, space velocities, etc.
A thorough literature review, and models / calculations to predict or interpret experimental results should be part of the final thesis.
Requirements
University Graduate
The ideal candidate should have a master degree in chemical engineering (or an equivalent degree) with an appropriate specialization. Any experience and/or special interest in biomass conversion, chemical analysis, catalysis, reaction kinetics and process automation would be valuable. Because the PhD student will, as a pioneer researcher, be involved directly in the erection of a new laboratory it is of importance that he/she possesses the fighting spirit to cope with all the practical challenges associated. With respect to that, good communication skills are certainly required. Technical skills in combination with a creative mind and the ability to work independently towards the goals of the project, are further essential. Last but not least, the candidate should be able to communicate fluently in English both in speech and writing. The thesis and associated publications must be written in English.
Additional information about the job:
Industrial collaboration
The PhD project is supported both financially, and through in kind services, by Ghent University, Albemarle Catalysts Company B.V. in Amsterdam and BTG Biomass Technology Group BV in Enschede. The collaboration between the three parties is detailed in a special agreement. As part of that agreement, the PhD student will get access to BTG’s research facilities for measurements at pilot scale, which means that he/she will be working for a number of short periods in The Netherlands as well.
Organization
Ghent University , Faculty of Bioscience Engineering
To some people Ghent is the real diamond of Flanders and Belgium. In a unique way, Ghent has managed to preserve its medieval power while keeping up with the times. The city center alone is a showcase of medieval Flemish wealth and commercial success. Modern Ghent has an important harbor, thanks to the canal Ghent-Terneuzen which allows sea-going vessels to bring their products to the city and its industrial hinterland.
Ghent University is one of the most important institutions of higher education and research in the Benelux and yearly attracts over 30,000 students, with a foreign student population of almost 2,500. Ghent University offers a broad range of study programs in all academic and scientific branches. With a view to cooperation in research and community service, numerous research groups, centers and institutes have been founded over the years.
The specific competence of the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering is the study of living systems and their interactions with the environment. Next to the various study curricula offered, scientific research is carried out both to acquire fundamental knowledge and to serve the industry in a socially acceptable way. The faculty has a very pleasant campus near the medieval centre of Ghent.
Research in the new laboratory for Bioresources Processing will be focused on thermo chemical conversion of biomass including both the improvement of traditional, and the development of new gasification and pyrolyis processes. Special emphasis will be put on production routes for second-generation biofuels and green chemicals. Links will be made with biological routes in integrated process concepts, often indicated these days as biorefineries.
Prof. Dr. Ing. Wolter Prins
Professor Prins, the supervisor for this project, previously worked in Enschede, The Netherlands, as head of R&D in BTG Biomass Technology Group b.v., and as an associate professor at the University of Twente. May 1st, 2008 he was appointed by Ghent University in Belgium to start a new laboratory in Bioresources Processing.
Conditions of employment
Employment basis: Temporary for specified period
Duration of the contract: 4 years
Additional conditions of employment:
Conditions are negotiable.
Additional Information
Additional information about the vacancy can be obtained from:
Prof.dr.ir. Wolter Prins
Telephone number: +32 9 264 6130
E-mail address: Wolter.Prins@UGent.be
Or additional information can be obtained through one of the following links.
* About the organization
* About the department
Application
You can apply for this job by sending your application to:
Ghent University
Faculty of Bioscience Engineering
Prof.Dr.In Wolter Prins
Coupure Links 653
B-9000 GHENT
Belgium
E-mail address: Wolter.Prins@UGent.be
The application (in English) should include:
- A single page letter, summarizing the candidate’s background and capabilities, and a letter of motivation;
- Attested copies of education certificates, and a list of master courses with the grades obtained;
- Curriculum Vitae / resumé;
- If possible, letters of recommendation from your university professor and/or previous employers.
When applying for this job always mention the vacancy number AT001.
