Post-doc on membrane development and related membrane separation processes

As a Flemish, internationally recognized research center, VITO aims to accelerate the transition to a sustainable world. Within the materials and chemistry unit (MATCH), the MESCH team at VITO develops industrially viable membranes and membrane processes for the intensification of chemical, electrochemical and biotechnological processes. Membranes and membrane processes are of great value in the transition towards a more sustainable industry, because of their broad application area, low energy consumption and usefulness at every scale.

In a new trajectory, we aim to develop new polymeric and hybrid membrane concepts for membrane distillation and electrochemical processes.

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 membranes and membrane-related processes such as membrane distillation. 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 polymer-based membrane development, characterization and testing.

• You will develop and optimize membrane-based treatment trains to evaluate these new membranes.

• Based on the basic workplans, you will plan, execute, supervise and coordinate membrane developments as well as membrane-based separation processes, by designing experiments, execute these in the lab and then perform the analysis of the various test results. Reporting of the results is also a part of the job.

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

• a PhD in chemical or process engineering;

• a track record of applied knowledge on polymer-based membrane casting/characterization and membrane separation processes of liquid streams;

• ideally, knowledge on process design, specifically in membrane distillation or extraction processes;

• a good knowledge of organic and inorganic material characterization

• 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 casting, characterization and related separation processes;

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

• a competitive salary package.