KU Leuven

Upgrading processed biomass into valuable compounds for specific end-use

2024-07-01 (Europe/Brussels)
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About the employer

KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

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The mission statement of the CSCE (Center for Sustainable Catalysis and Engineering) is to produce knowledge to foster a better understanding of the role of heterogeneous catalysis in the upcoming circular and carbon-smart economy. CSCE research covers the range of fundamental to applied catalysis research, both in chemistry and engineering.
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Responsibilities

Lignocellulose is the most abundant source of biomass and therefore highly interesting for the production of biobased chemicals in the upcoming (bio)circular economy. In this regard, CSCE pioneered in the development of the Reductive Catalytic Fractionation (RCF) technology. This technology converts pure wood into two valuable fractions: a cellulosic pulp and a lignin oil, both can be used to synthesize platform chemicals or polymer building blocks.

For this particular vacancy, we're looking for a motivated and independent postdoctoral researcher highly interested in the upgrading processed biomass into valuable compounds for specific end-application, namely flame retardants and polyurethanes precursors. Noteworthy, this postdoc project will support multiple running and upcoming research projects. Therefore, this position will give the chance to collaborate with other colleagues, providing them the necessary insights and truly impact research at CSCE.

Profile

- PhD degree in Chemistry or related fields by the start of the postdoc position; postdoc seniority of 0-3 years;
- Solid and proven expertise in organic chemistry, e.g. multi-step synthesis, work in controlled environment (e.g. Schlenk line), safe operation and handling of hazardous compounds, column chromatography, NMR, LC, GC etc. for product analysis; experience in upscaling to multi-gram scale of purified compounds is a plus; 
- Motivation for applied chemistry research with a strong fundamental basis;
- An aptitude for daily hands-on laboratory work, and experience with relevant experimental research;
- Ability to work independently, and to report progress in an accurate and timely fashion;
- Fluent English, both spoken and written;

Offer

  • Full-time postdoctoral position for one year (with potential extension).
  • The opportunity to work and live in one of the most innovative universities and cities in Europe. Leuven is located 20 min from Brussels, in the center of Europe.
  • International working environment and possibility to present your work at international conferences.
  • A state-of-the-art experimental infrastructure

Interested?

Candidates can apply by submitting their CV and motivation letter via the online application tool. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For further questions: csce.applications@kuleuven.be.

For more info on the research group: https://sels-group.eu/

We look forward to your application.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Job details

Title
Upgrading processed biomass into valuable compounds for specific end-use
Employer
Location
Oude Markt 13 Leuven, Belgium
Published
2024-06-03
Application deadline
2024-07-01 23:59 (Europe/Brussels)
2024-07-01 23:59 (CET)
Job type
Save job

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About the employer

KU Leuven is an autonomous university. It was founded in 1425. It was born of and has grown within the Catholic tradition.

Visit the employer page