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PhD Position Modelling and Optimization of Processes to Recycle Low-grade Biogenic Waste
Job description
As the Netherlands phases out fossil feedstocks, carbon becomes a critical raw material for everyday materials (e.g., plastics, asphalt, composites, batteries). While renewable carbon can come from biogenic waste, low-grade biowaste is often wet/contaminated and is therefore typically downcycled (e.g., low-value compost/animal feed) or incinerated, which also creates problematic bottom and fly ash residues and can spread persistent contaminants.
This leaves a major gap: how to valorize low-grade waste into high-value products beyond biofuels/biogas at industrially-relevant scales?
The NWA-ORC funded consortium project ABEL addresses this challenge by combining technology development with process modelling and assessment across the waste value chain. The members of the consortium include 4 other research Universities, 2 Universities of Applied Sciences, and companies across the value chain of biomass.
In this PhD project, you will develop state-of-the-art methodologies to:
Design and scale up novel processes for the valorization of low-grade biowaste.
Model transition pathways for the ABEL technologies to integrate into existing or new value chains.
Minimize energy and resource use through efficient heat exchange, waste heat recovery, and optimized process conditions.
Assess and reduce environmental impacts, such as greenhouse gas emissions.
Validate models with literature and consortium data and in case studies defined by the consortium.
The PhD would join the Circular PSE group led by Dr. Somoza-Tornos and work together with other researchers modelling emerging technologies for the de-fossilization of the chemical industry. They would also be part of the Process Systems Engineering (PSE) section at TUDelft, that comprises a professional team dedicated to advanced computational research, with a collective focus on advancing the PSE field to bring new insights and sustainable developments.
Job requirements
The ideal candidate will be an ambitious, proactive, reflective, and results-driven researcher. We are looking for the following:
MSc degree in chemical engineering or similar field (essential).
Strong background in chemical process modelling and design (essential).
Prior experience with process optimization (desirable).
Prior experience with techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment (desirable but not required).
Strong collaboration, communication and writing skills.
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 Applied Sciences
With more than 1,100 employees, including 150 pioneering principal investigators, as well as a population of about 3,600 passionate students, the Faculty of Applied Sciences is an inspiring scientific ecosystem. Focusing on key enabling technologies, such as quantum- and nanotechnology, photonics, biotechnology, synthetic biology and materials for energy storage and conversion, our faculty aims to provide solutions to important problems of the 21st century. To that end, we educate innovative students in broad Bachelor's and specialist Master's programmes with a strong research component. Our scientists conduct ground-breaking fundamental and applied research in the fields of Life and Health Science & Technology, Nanoscience, Chemical Engineering, Radiation Science & Technology, and Engineering Physics. We are also training the next generation of high school teachers.
about this vacancy or the selection procedure, please contact , via
[email protected].
Application procedure
Are you interested in this vacancy? Please apply no later than 31 August 2026 upload the following documents:
CV
Cover letter
Copies of your university degrees, and transcripts for your BSc and MSc programmes.
You can address your application to .
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.
Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.
Faculty/Department: Faculty of Applied Sciences
Salary range: €3059 - €3881
Submission is possible until: 31 Aug 2026
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