Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Lignocellulose Pre-treatment for Enzymatic Hydrolysis 2009 to 2010, University of Stellenbosch, South Africa

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship – Lignocellulose Pre-treatment for Enzymatic Hydrolysis 2009 to 2010
Department of Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa

Position:
An opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher in Lignocellulose Pre-treatment and Enzymatic Hydrolysis is currently available. Candidates with experience in thermochemical pre-treatment and/or fractionation of lignocellulose and enzymatic hydrolysis are particularly encouraged to apply. The fellowship is available for a period of two years as of 1 February 2009 or six months thereafter. A minimum amount of ZAR 180 000 per annum has been granted for the fellowship and we understand that, provided we follow the necessary procedures put in place, thisamount will be tax-free.

Research:
This research group within which the candidate will work is currently undertaking research in the following areas:

• Comparison of pre-treatment methods for enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic energy crops, including sugarcane, sweet sorghum and triticale
• Development of alternative fractionation methods for lignocellulose pretreatment· Advanced chemical analysis of lignocellulosic feedstocks during pretreatment, to develop a fundamental understanding of the processes involved
• Scale-up of dilute acid pre-treatment to steam explosion The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to contribute significantly to:
  A. The publication of research outputs from current and previous projects
  B. Daily supervision of postgraduate student projects
  C. Performing experimental work when necessary
  D. Developing new areas of research within the research group.
  E. Writing new funding proposals to sustain research activities

Requirements:
A Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology or related Scientific discipline obtained within the past five years, with a strong background in lignocellulose pretreatment. A first degree in Chemical Engineering, allowing registration as a professional engineer in South Africa will be considered as a significant benefit.

Applications:
A covering letter and curriculum vitae, including all research outputs should be sent to: Dr Johann Görgens, Department of Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa

Fax: +27 (0)21-808-2059
E-mail: jgorgens[ at ]sun.ac.za and see www.chemeng.sun.ac.za for more details on the department and the University of Stellenbosch