EngD - Design of Plastic Pyrolysis Purification Processes

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EngD

EngD - Design of Plastic Pyrolysis Purification Processes

This vacancy is only available in English

As part of the Purifiy project, we are looking for a EngD candidate on the design of plastic pyrolysis purification processes.

Pyrolysis offers a promising path to valorize difficult-to-recycle plastic waste. However, harmful contaminants present in such waste streams (e.g., halogens, metals, and nitrogen compounds) can cause equipment corrosion, catalyst deactivation, and compromise product quality. We are developing and evaluating innovative technologies to remove these contaminants in-situ during pyrolysis and ex-situ from the resulting vapor and liquid pyrolysis products.

The EngD will perform desktop studies related to process design and optimization, techno-economic evaluations, and screening of purification technologies.

Faculty of Science and Engineering
Apply no later than: 30 August 2026 23:59 Dutch local time
1 FTE
€3.173 - €3.173

EngD - Design of Plastic Pyrolysis Purification Processes

Apply now
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What are you going to do?

The main objective of this EngD project is to participate in the Purify project in the areas of process design, techno-economic evaluations, and (medium to high TRL) technology screening. The work mainly consists of (process) modelling and design studies and does not involve lab work. Close collaboration with PhD/postdoc research involved in the project is expected, as well as with the industrial partners.

Who are you?

We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:

  •  Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering (or related).
  •  Excellent marks on the master’s diploma.
  •  High command of English language (verbal and written).

Applicants whose first language is not English must submit evidence of competency in English, please see University of Groningen’s English Language Requirements for details.

In addition to the selection criteria, the following personal competences/skills are important:

  • Highly motivated towards the project and EngD programme.
  • Creative, design, practical and analytical skills.
  • Team player.
  • Advanced technical knowledge.
  • Good understanding of different separation technologies.
  • Affinity for thermochemical processes (e.g., pyrolysis)
  • Ability to work in an international team, a research and engineering environment, and collaborate with different levels of companies’ employees in a professional way.

You feel responsible for your EngD project and can work in sociable autonomy. Your proactive attitude enables you to identify bottlenecks and to approach them in a positive, problem-solving manner. You have strong communication skills and know how to get things done.

What can you expect from us?

  • In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 3.173 up to a maximum of € 3.173 (toio) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
  • 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
  • End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
  • Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
  • The EngD project is 2 years. First, you will get a temporary position of one year with the option of renewal for another year; extension of the contract is contingent on sufficient progress in the first year.
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Where will you be working?

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

The Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) provides teaching and research across a wide range of disciplines, from physics and biology to artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, and pharmacy. In close collaboration with partners from industry, healthcare, and society, we contribute to the urgent challenges of our time, such as energy, sustainability, digitization, and medical technology. Our community is open and informal, with more than 7,000 students, 1,000 PhD students, and 1,400 staff members from all over the world. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Science and Engineering, visit rug.nl/fse

The Engineering and Technology Institute Groningen (ENTEG-part of the FSE) of the University of Groningen is offering a fully funded 2-year position to master graduates leading to the award of an EngD (Engineering Doctorate) degree. The EngD programme includes specialized EngD and professionalization courses at the University of Groningen and a design project which will be performed at the university and possibly at the companies involved in the project.

Application procedure

Step 1: Your application

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

Step 2: Selection

The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.

Step 3: First interview

We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.

Step 4: Second interview and possible assessment or guest lecture

We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.

Step 5: Terms of employment meeting

After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!

Interested?

Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.

Please add the following documents to your application:

  • A motivation letter in which you indicate why you would like to work on that particular project and why you would like to start the EngD programme.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) with passport photo.
  • Proof of English proficiency.
  • Master certificate (or proof of near completion MSc programme).
  • List of grades and courses taken (translated by the certification institute).
  • Course descriptions of the Master programme of the certification institute (University) with links to the course descriptions.
  • Detailed summary of the Master’s thesis.
  • Two letters of recommendation from academic staff or from the last supervisor(s). The letter can be scanned and sent together with all other application documents.
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Do you have any questions or need more information?

  • Questions about the content of the job?

    Arne Hommes

    Assistant Professor

    A.Hommes@rug.nl
  • Questions about your application process?

    Konstanze Gier

    External Collaboration Coordinator

    K.Gier@rug.nl

Information about applying

When scheduling meetings, we will take your schedule into account as much as possible.

The University of Groningen considers social safety important. We strive to be a university where staff and students feel respected and at home, regardless of differences in background, experiences, perspectives, and identity. For more information, see also our page about our diversity policy.

Acquisition is not appreciated.

Our selection procedure follows the guidelines of the NVP Application Code.

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