PhD position in downstream bioseparation with membrane technology

The PhD project will be carried out in the Group of Smart Responsive Separation with Hybrid Processes at KU Leuven under the supervision of Prof. dr. Xing Yang. We also form part of the larger Process Engineering for Sustainable Systems (ProcESS) group at the Department of Chemical Engineering with expertise in process intensification, multiphase microfluidics, use of alternative energy sources and membrane technology.
The Yang Research Group focuses on process intensification strategies for designing low-emission and energy efficient separation systems utilizing smart responsive materials with nano/micro-structured interfaces, reactive kinetics and optimal separation units. The hybridisation of separation technologies (e.g., membrane, extraction, crystallization, absorption and chromatography) is the key tool to design an Energy-Efficient Separation Systems for Sustainability (2E3S), assisted with experimental research and process system engineering via multi-scale numerical modeling.
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Project

We have 1 PhD opening on membrane technology for downstream purification of biomolecules. The project is part of our newly granted Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie doctoral training network is hiring 10 high calibre candidates! pls visit our website for detailed descriptions https://www.bio-gentle.eu/

Bio-GENTLE will train 10 doctoral candidates (DCs) with an overarching goal to propel Europe to the forefront of research and development of BMs that can be used as high-volume commodities or low volume, but high value, compounds in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. DC4 & DC5 will be based in KU Leuven, Belgium and have unique networking experiences to France, Nederland, etc. Here are the brief descriptions:

DC5: The main scope of this PhD lies in the handling of more concentrated streams, for example, protein harvesting via heterogenous membrane crystalization, aiming to understand the synergistic effects for promoting the yield and morphological control. 

The project requires candidates to develop in-depth understanding on the surface chemistry, pore engineering as well as transport phenomena. If you are highly motivated researchers in the areas of Chemical Engineering with passion in membrane science and biopharmaceutical applications, you are strongly encouraged to enquire and apply. 

Profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and passionate candidate to perform the Ph.D. project on the above-mentioned interdisciplinary research topics.

·      Requirement: Master's degree in Chemical & Biochemical Engineering or in relevant disciplines, with first class honor /high distinction.

·      Strong interest and solid knowledge in the relevant fields as described.

·      Fluent English (written and verbal communication) for scientific interactions required.

·      Self-motivated, passionate and great interpersonal skills. 

·      Willingness to work at interdisciplinary boundaries and in an international team. 

Offer

The successful candidate will be offered a PhD fellowship to become part of our international team with global research links to work towards a PhD, as well as part of the exciting Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie doctoral training network. Funding can be provided with attractive stipend.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Xing Yang, tel.: +32 16 37 46 72, mail: xing.yang@kuleuven.be.

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