Within the working-unit Membrane Materials and Technology at the Faculty of Science and Technology of the University of Twente, we have2 PhD positionsfor a project, entitled:
“Fabrication and Characterization of Hollow Fibre Nanofiltration Membranes”

The research project targets on the fabrication of novel solvent-resistant nanofiltration membranes (SRNF). Membrane modules will be constructed and tested, too. Nanofiltration is an energy-efficient separation process with potential applications in many industries, ranging from petro-chemistry to pharmaceuticals.

The first PhD student will work on preparation of multi-layer ceramic hollow fibre membranes. The aim is to obtain more fundamental insight in the fabrication process and to develop a process scheme for the reproducible preparation of defect-free systems.

The second PhD student will work on the preparation of composite nanofiltration membranes with polymer coatings. Several types of polymers will be evaluated for the development of membranes to be used in a broad range of applications.

The two PhD students will work in close cooperation.

What we offer and what we ask

We offer a scientific education on a multidisciplinary subject. The assignment is for 4 years, with a go/no-go assessment at the end of the first year. The candidates are expected to finish the project with a PhD thesis and disseminate the results through patents (if applicable), publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at international conferences.

We are looking for highly motivated researchers with an MSc degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, material science or a related topic, with adequate experimental and theoretical skills.

For the first PhD position, experimental experience and/or interest in processing and characterization of advanced ceramic materials is an asset. For the second PhD position hands-on experience with polymer chemistry and/or membrane preparation and characterization is preferred.

We prefer candidates with a good team spirit, who like to work in an internationally oriented environment. Fluency in English is a requirement. An interview will be part of the selection process.

Information and application

For information about these positions, please contact:

Dr. Louis Winnubst; e-mail: a.j.a.winnubst@utwente.nl, Tel +31 53 489 2994, or:

Dr. Dimitrios Stamatialis; e-mail: d.stamatialis@utwente.nl, Tel +31 53 489 4675

Candidates, who are interested in one of these positions, are required to send curriculum vitae with an accompanying letter (by post or e-mail) to Dr. Winnubst or Dr. Stamatialis.

Dr. Louis Winnubst
University of Twente
Faculty of Science and Technology, LA 1749
P.O. Box 217
7500 AE Enschede
The Netherlands

Website: http://mtg.tnw.utwente.nl/vacancies/phdsnrf/