As part of this project, you will research on the feasibility of producing sustainable fuels from CO2. You will synthesise catalysts, characterize them and will test them in appropriate reactors available in the group. Although project involves a combination of multiple technologies, the liquefaction of biomass would be a particularly desired direction of research. You should also be willing to maintain and troubleshoot the equipment as much as possible. Since the project is coordinated by the group, the person is also expected to contribute to the coordination of the project. 

You will/tasks:

• Conduct experiments in the lab for producing fuels from biomass and/or CO2, analysis of the products, studying the mechanism of the reactions etc;
• Operate batch or flow reactors as and when needed;
• Modification and troubleshooting of the reactor as and when necessary;
• Understand the process and implement new ideas;
• Maintain good practices for the data recording, management, analysis and presentation;
• Reporting the progress and the results to the group leader and the consortium, dissemination of the results in peer-reviewed journals and conferences as when necessary;
• Supervising the students and teaching duties as stipulated by the institute;
• Travel to the labs of collaborators if needed;
• Contribute to the project coordination;
• Collaborate with other group members when necessary.

• A recent PhD degree in chemical engineering, applied chemistry or related field, with experience in catalysis; 
• Practical experience in operating catalytic reactors;
• Experience in analytical techniques;
• Willingness to approach the problem creatively and critically;
• Ability to work independently and to plan tasks effectively to meet deadlines;
• Willingness to supervise student projects including PhD and Masters.

Your experience and profile:

• Good communication skills in oral and written English;
• Takes initiative and has good time management skills;
• Interest in collaborating with other group members and also externally;
• Interest in sustainability, passion for research and motivation to help the society through your research.

A temporary contract for 38 hours per week, preferably starting as soon as possible, but latest on February 28th, 2025, for the duration of 12 months, which can be extendable depending on the performance and project progress. A probation period of two months will be applicable. 

The gross monthly salary, based on 38 hours per week and dependent on relevant experience, ranges between €3,378 - € 5,331 (scale 10). This does not include 8% holiday allowance and 8,3% year-end allowance. The UFO profile Researcher 4 is applicable. A favourable tax agreement, the ‘30% ruling’, may apply to non-Dutch applicants.