PhD project: Downstream Processing of Biochemical Processes
PhD project: Downstream Processing of Biochemical Processes
Danmarks Tekniske Universitet
Lyngby-Taarbæk, 1 stilling
Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering – CAPEC-PROCESS Research Center
A PhD position is available in connection with the strategic research center BIOPRO2 which is funded by Innovation Fund Denmark. DTU Chemical and Biochemical Engineering coordinates the center which includes Novo Nordisk, Novozymes, Dong Energy, CP Kelco and Chr. Hansen as industrial partners as well as other departments at DTU and Copenhagen University. The BIOPRO2 center aims at developing and optimizing knowledge- and bio-based production industries at the plant level.
To facilitate continuous optimization of the operation of biological production processes or when processing a biological feedstock, better monitoring strategies need to be implemented together with state-of-the-art models. Such strategies should explicitly utilize advanced measurement tools and process understanding from fundamental first principles engineering models, combined with the knowledge base within the engineering departments of the production companies.
Although the target is the downstream processing steps which result in the final product, understanding the dynamic interconnections between these steps and the biological process steps, at the heart of the production line, are essential to obtain smooth operation and to reduce waste and other costs of operation in terms of energy, water and other resources.
Case studies will be developed in collaboration with the partner companies for development and validation with focus on full implementation in the industrial environment whenever possible.
The project is expected to address different industrial situations and involves the following activities:
- Process outline and problem definitions in collaboration with industrial partners
- On-line analytical techniques; survey of process analyzers and their industrial implementation; selection
- Process modelling and validation
- Testing of strategies based on combined findings in collaboration with industry
- Dissemination and communication of results to industry and academia
Qualifications
Candidates should have a master's degree in chemical and biochemical engineering or a similar degree with an academic level equivalent to the master's degree in engineering. Besides a strong commitment to research, the PhD student should preferably have experience within process modeling of chemical and biochemical systems, simulation, optimization, control, statistical data analysis as well as experience with programming. Proficiency of spoken and written English is required as well as good communication and self-management skills. Collaboration with industry will be an important feature of the project. Therefore, it is important to possess (and/or develop) the skills to communicate efficiently with industry. Of particular importance is the ability to identify and define problems together with industry, to agree on solution methods and to communicate results.
Approval and Enrolment
The scholarships for the PhD degree are subject to academic approval and the candidates will be enrolled in one of the general degree programs of DTU. For information about the general requirements for enrolment and the general planning of the scholarship studies, please see the DTU PhD Guide.
Assessment
The assessment of the applicants will be made by Associate Professor Jens Abildskov.
We offer
We offer an interesting and challenging job in an international environment focusing on education, research, public-sector consultancy and innovation, which contribute to enhancing the economy and improving social welfare. We strive for academic excellence, collegial respect and freedom tempered by responsibility. The Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is a leading technical university in northern Europe and benchmarks with the best universities in the world.
Salary and appointment terms
The salary and appointment terms are consistent with the current rules for PhD degree students. The position is available for a period of 3 years from August 1, 2016.
Further information
Further information may be obtained from Associate Professor Jens Abildskov, e-mail ja@kt.dtu.dk.
You can read more about DTU Chemical Engineering here.
Application
Please submit your online application no later than June 6, 2016. Applications must be submitted as one pdf file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply online," fill in the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one pdf file. The file must include:
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (an official translation into English)
- Excel sheet with translation of grades to the Danish grading system (see guidelines and excel spreadsheet here)
Candidates may apply prior to obtaining their master's degree, but cannot begin before having received it.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, disability, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply.
DTU is a technical university providing internationally leading research, education, innovation and public service. Our staff of 5,800 advance science and technology to create innovative solutions that meet the demands of society; and our 10,300 students are being educated to address the technological challenges of the future. DTU is an independent academic university collaborating globally with business, industry, government, and public agencies.
