Post-doc on development of membrane-based ISPR and DSP for biotechnological processes

Post-doc on development of membrane-based ISPR and DSP for biotechnological processes 

The MESCH team at VITO develops industrially viable membrane processes for the intensification of chemical and biotechnological processes. Membranes and membrane processes are of great value in the transition towards a more sustainable chemical and biotechnological industry, because of their broad application area, low energy consumption and usefulness in chemical and biotechnological processes at every scale. 

In a new trajectory, we are developing membrane-based DSP trains for the in-situ recovery and purification of high-value bioproducts. Besides innovative membrane technologies, these trains can also contain other separation technologies such as liquid-liquid extraction, adsorption and crystallization.  

To strengthen our team of researchers and technicians (now about 20 people) we are looking for a new colleague for the execution of projects on the development of membrane-based treatment trains for above-mentioned biotechnological and other processes. For this we opened a post-doc position for a 2-year contract. 

This is our plan for you: 

• Together with our team of experts, you will support the execution and follow-up of dedicated projects on the development of membrane-based treatment trains.  

• Based on the basic workplans, you will plan, execute, supervise and coordinate recovery and purification tests, by designing experiments, execute these and do the analysis of the various test results.  Reporting results is a part of the job as well.  

To excel in this position, we think you will need:  

• a PhD in chemical or bioprocess engineering; 

• a track record of applied knowledge on liquid-liquid extraction, membrane separations, adsorption and/or crystallization; 

• ideally, knowledge on process design and/or alternative bioprocessed feedstocks;  

• enthusiasm about both experimental lab/pilot work as well about processing of data and reporting; 

• team player skills; 

• a strong interest in cooperation with other partners (industry, SME’s, institutes, universities); 

• a good proficiency in English, both written and spoken. 

On top of the job content, we offer: 

• a team of great colleagues, experts in their field, who will guide, support and interact with you; 

• a front-row seat to witness the development of technical solutions for a sustainable world; 

• access to state-of-art equipment for membrane processes; 

• compelling opportunities to interact with partners in industry and academia; 

• a competitive salary package. 

VITO, one of Europe's leading research centres with 1,300 employees, turns scientific insights into groundbreaking technological innovations, AI based solutions, and policy advice. We do so with a single objective: to help the world thrive for at least a 1,000 more years.

As a science-to-technology partner, we support companies, governments, and society in their sustainability transition. With our multidisciplinary approach and unique lab, scale-up, and testing infrastructure, we create practical technological innovations. We accelerate progress towards a regenerative economy within the planetary boundaries (prioritising electrification and circularity), smart climate solutions for resilient and secure ecosystems, and a healthy living environment harmonising humans, industry, agriculture, and nature.

Our staff collaborate in multidisciplinary expert teams across more than 40 research domains, utilising our unique laboratory and data infrastructure, as well as our extensive network of innovation partners. Through positive transition thinking and comprehensive techno-economic analysis, we develop solutions that are effective not only on paper but also in the complex realities of everyday life.