PhD Position Scale-up of Energy Storage via Sorption-Enhanced CO2 Conversion to Fuel/Chemicals
Are you intrigued by how you can shape the energy transition by scale up of green electricity based large-scale energy storage via CO2 capture and dynamic conversion with hydrogen from electrolysis?
Job description
The research programme CO2URAGE, funded by the Dutch funding organisation NWO in the framework of the Perspectief Programme, targets the conversion of intermittent electricity to platform chemicals and fuels making use of dynamically operated processes. This is a promising route to alleviate net congestion and make more effective and economic use of renewable electricity without an unnecessary discarding of generated power. This four year’s PhD position is aimed at using captured CO2 from point sources and hydrogen from water electrolysis to generate carbon-based base chemicals and fuels. One reactor system that can be made use of is CO2 hydrogenation using bifunctional materials. On the one hand such materials catalyze the reaction but also capture water in-situ so that the inherent chemical equilibrium is shifted to completion. This is called sorption enhancement. The bifunctional material will be loaded with water and for continuous operation of the process this must be regenerated. For this purpose we envisage advanced electricity based methods. As the process is aimed to be operated at large scale, the reactor technology to be selected is to be scalable.
At TU Delft within the department of Process & Energy we have available unique laboratory facilities that enable such scale-up to TRL5 level with good support by technicians. You will be formulating and carrying out the experimental work in this context, making use of advanced in-situ measurement techniques like radar technology. A post-doc will assist the work as well. The experimental validation study is accompanied by reactor engineering modelling for conversion and sorbent regeneration, in conjunction with another PhD student in the department who will perform CFD modelling and other researchers performing process system modelling within the consortium.
You will collaborate with experts from TUDELFT, TNO and several large and SME companies involved in the programme. Although there is significant progress related to chemical utilisation of CO2, the field of scalable and dynamic reactor development and operation has been lacking. As a PhD student, you will be responsible for achieving experimental proof of concept.
Job requirements
An MSc degree in Mechanical engineering, Chemical engineering, Applied physics, or related field is required.
Knowledge and proven experience with performing measurements and engineering reactor modeling and/or CFD.
A critical and inquisitive attitude with regard to obtained results is expected, which translates into formulating new research questions.
Ability to function both in a team and independently.
Good communication skills. Fluent in English, both spoken and written. Willing to learn the Dutch language.
TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)
Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.
For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.
These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.
At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.
Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.
Faculty Mechanical Engineering
From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.
ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.
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Conditions of employment
Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3204 - €4051 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.
Additional information
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof.dr.ir. Wiebren de Jong,
[email protected].
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 30 September 2026 upload the following documents:
CV
Motivational letter
You can address your application to Prof.dr.ir. Wiebren de Jong.
Doing a PhD at TU Delft requires English proficiency at a certain level to ensure that the candidate is able to communicate and interact well, participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses, and write scientific articles and a final thesis. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.
Please note:
You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
As part of knowledge security, TU Delft conducts a risk assessment during the recruitment of personnel. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology. The assessment is based on information provided by the candidates themselves, such as their motivation letter and CV, and takes place at the final stages of the selection process. When the outcome of the assessment is negative, the candidate will be informed. The processing of personal data in the context of the risk assessment is carried out on the legal basis of the GDPR: performing a public task in the public interest. You can find more information about this assessment on our website about knowledge security.
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Faculty/Department: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Salary range: €3204 - €4051
Submission is possible until: 30 Sep 2026
