University of Twente

PhD Position on Process Systems Engineering for Flexible CO2 Utilisation under Renewable Energy Variability – University of Twente – Enschede

University of Twente

Jobid=624577414491606451 (0.0989)

Are you excited about applying mathematical modelling, optimization and control to accelerate the energy transition? In this PhD project, you will develop advanced Process Systems Engineering methodologies for the design and operation of flexible CO2 utilisation processes powered by intermittent renewable energy. You will work at the interface of chemical engineering, optimization, sustainability assessment and industrial implementation.

The transition towards a sustainable chemical industry requires new process concepts that can efficiently convert captured CO2 into valuable products while operating under fluctuating renewable energy supply. Such systems must be able to cope with variations in electricity availability and price while maintaining economic viability and environmental performance.

In this PhD project, you will develop advanced Process Systems Engineering (PSE) methodologies to support decision-making in the design and operation of electrified CO2 utilisation processes. Central to the research is the development of superstructure-based models that represent alternative process configurations and conversion pathways. These models will be integrated across multiple scales, ranging from reactor-level phenomena to complete process systems.

You will formulate optimization and control frameworks for flexible and dynamic operation, enabling processes to respond effectively to changing renewable energy availability. The developed methods will be translated into practical decision-support tools that help quantify techno-economic, environmental and sustainability trade-offs. The project combines mathematical modelling, process simulation, optimization, dynamic systems analysis and sustainability assessment.

You will become part of the Process Systems Engineering group within the Sustainable Process Technology cluster of the University of Twente. The group offers a collaborative, international and supportive research environment with strong expertise in modelling, optimization, control and digitalization of chemical processes. Through close interaction with industrial partners, you will ensure that the developed methodologies address real-world challenges and contribute directly to the future of sustainable process industries.

Your profile

  • You hold, or will shortly obtain, a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Systems and Control, Applied Mathematics, or a related discipline.
  • You have a strong interest in mathematical modelling, optimization and process systems engineering.
  • You possess excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • You are interested in contributing to the energy transition and sustainable chemical industry.
  • Experience with programming (e.g. GProms Python, MATLAB, Julia or similar) is an advantage.
  • Experience with optimization, process simulation or control is considered a plus.
  • You enjoy working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • You are proficient in spoken and written English.

    • Our offer

  • Opportunity to work on a highly relevant research topic at the forefront of the energy transition.
  • Collaboration with leading industrial partners active in sustainable process development.
  • Access to state-of-the-art modelling, optimization and simulation tools.
  • An international and stimulating research environment within a leading Process Systems Engineering group.
  • Opportunities to present your work at international conferences and publish in leading scientific journals.
  • A personalised training and development programme through the Twente Graduate School.
  • A full-time position for four years, with a qualifier in the first year, and the flexibility to work (partially) from home.
  • Your salary and associated conditions are in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
  • You will receive a gross monthly salary ranging from € 3.059,- (first year) to € 3.881 ,- (fourth year).
  • There are excellent benefits including a holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary, an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%, and a solid pension scheme.
  • A minimum of 232 leave hours in case of full-time employment based on a formal workweek of 38 hours. A full-time employment in practice means 40 hours a week, therefore resulting in 96 extra leave hours on an annual basis.
  • Free access to sports facilities on campus.
  • A family-friendly institution that offers parental leave (both paid and unpaid).

    • Lees hier meer

    Deel deze vacature:

    Om op deze vacature te solliciteren bezoek je nl.talent.com.

    • Datum Geplaatst:
    • Plaats: Enschede