Due to climate change, process water is becoming increasingly scarce, while (waste) salt solutions containing water and valuable salts are often discharged. Although technical solutions for the recovery of water and salts are available, these technologies are not cost-effective and sustainable. To secure industrial water availability and at the same time make optimal use of salt and water from waste streams, more energy-efficient and cost-effective technologies need to be developed.
Electrodialysis membranes offer an economically attractive solution for the treatment of these wastewater streams. Electrodialysis relies on the application of an electric field across a stack of ion-exchange membranes to drive ions toward the oppositely charged electrode. As the feedwater is passed through the flow channels, cations and anions selectively pass through alternating cation- and anion-exchange membranes, respectively, thereby forming ion-concentrated and depleted solution streams on each side of the membrane. To ensure high separation performance, anion and cation exchange membranes combining both rigid and defined pores as well as surface functional groups are required.
In one of the Phd projects, part of the granted TKI E&I Odysseus program we aim to engineer hybrid ceramic membranes for the concentration of saline streams by electrodialysis. To develop such systems, you will combine the advantages of well-designed porous ceramic nanostructures with organic surface functional groups. The PhD student in this project will be working within the Inorganic Membranes group part of the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology. The Odysseus project will allow many relevant collaborations within the faculty of science and technology of the University of Twente, as well as with several end-users who are partners in the project.
Your profileYou have, or will shortly, acquire a master's degree in the field of chemical engineering, material chemistry, or a closely related subject area
You have a creative mindset and excellent experimental, analytical and communication skills.
You are an excellent team player in an enthusiastic group of scientists and engineers working on a common theme.
You are fluent in English and able to collaborate intensively with external parties in regular meetings and work visits.
Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before February 29th, and include:
An interview and a scientific presentation will be part of the selection procedure.
For more information regarding this position, you are welcome to contact Dr. Marie Pizzoccaro-Zilamy ([email protected])
About the departmentResearch in the Inorganic Membrane (IM) group encompasses macro- as well as micro-scale phenomena, in the field of ceramic/inorganic membrane technology, transport phenomena, and membrane process design. Within IM, you will join the Nanostructured Porous Membranes team composed of highly motivated researchers all working on the engineering of porous membranes with nanoscale features for challenging and demanding separations. Our goal is to develop the next generation of nanostructured porous hybrid membranes which will push further the combination of nanomaterials and polymer surface-modification science.
About the organisationThe Faculty of Science & Technology (Technische Natuurwetenschappen, TNW) engages some 700 staff members and 2000 students in education and research on the cutting edge of chemical technology, applied physics and biomedical technology. Our fields of application include sustainable energy, process technology and materials science, nanotechnology and technical medicine. As part of a people-first tech university that aims to shape society, individuals and connections, our faculty works together intensively with industrial partners and researchers in the Netherlands and abroad, and conducts extensive research for external commissioning parties and funders. Our research has a high profile both in the Netherlands and internationally and is strengthened by the many young researchers working on innovative projects with as doctoral candidates and post-docs. It has been accommodated in three multidisciplinary UT research institutes: Mesa+ Institute, TechMed Centre and Digital Society Institute.
Want to know more? Pizzoccaro - Zilamy, M.D. (Marie-Alix)Assistant Professor
Pizzoccaro - Zilamy, M.D. (Marie-Alix)Assistant Professor
Do you have questions about this vacancy? Then you can contact Marie-Alix for all substantive questions about this position and the application procedure. For general questions about working for the UT, please refer to the chatbot.
ContactPhone:+31534891506
Email:[email protected]
How to apply Step 1Apply. When you see a vacancy that appeals to you, you can apply online. We ask you to upload a CV and motivation letter and/or list of publications. You will receive a confirmation of receipt by e-mail.
Step 2Selection. The selection committee will review your application and you will receive a response within 2 weeks after the vacancy has been closed.
Step 31st interview. The 1st (online or in person) meeting serves as an introduction where we introduce ourselves to you and you to us. You may be asked to give a short presentation. This will be further explained in the invitation.
Step 42nd interview. In the second interview, we will further discuss the job content, your skills and your talents.
Step 5The offer. If the conversations are positive, you will be made a suitable offer.
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