PhD (f / m / x) : Sustainable Biofuel Production with Solar Energy - Entwicklung, Forschung, IT

Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR); Köln; Vor Ort; EUR 40.000 - 55.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institute is offering a PhD position to focus on the comparative assessment of thermochemical conversion methods powered by solar energy. You will explore technical, economic, and environmental implications, developing process models and analyzing biomass feedstocks while contributing to scientific knowledge through publications.

Leistungen

Training and development opportunities

Commitment to diversity and equality

Support for personal and professional development

Qualifikationen

• Degree in process engineering or similar.
• Experience with Aspen Plus and programming in Python.
• Knowledge of techno-economic and life cycle assessments.

Aufgaben

• Development of process models for pyrolysis and HTL.
• Analyse biomass and waste feedstocks for each process.
• Conduct techno-economic analyses and provide recommendations.

Kenntnisse

Process simulation

Programming

Communication skills in English

Techno-economic assessments

Biomass processing knowledge

Ausbildung

University degree in process engineering

Chemical engineering

Bioprocess engineering

Environmental engineering

Tools

Aspen Plus

Python

Jobbeschreibung

The vision of the DLR Institute for Future Fuels is to develop technological solutions that enable the cost-effective production of fuels, hydrogen, or even commodities in the sunbelt of the earth on an industrial scale. At the institute, we use our unique infrastructure in which concentrated solar energy covers the heat demand of high-temperature processes.

What to expect

This PhD position focuses on the comparative assessment of two promising thermochemical conversion routes powered by concentrated solar thermal (CST) energy : pyrolysis and hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL). You will explore the technical, economic, and environmental implications of using different biomass and waste feedstocks for each process. The goal is to understand which process is more suitable under specific boundary conditions, such as local feedstock availability or solar irradiation, and desired fuel or chemical outputs.

• development of process models for solar-powered pyrolysis and HTL systems using Aspen Plus, Python or similar tools
• identification and modelling of suitable biomass and waste feedstocks for each process based on available experimental data
• evaluation of the influence of solar conditions, biomass availability, geography and end-product targets on system performance
• implementation of techno-economic analyses for both conversion pathways, considering TRL and investment risk, and development of potential business models
• derivation of recommendations for optimal system configurations and coordination of raw materials and processes
• supporting the dissemination of results through scientific publications, conferences, and project reports

Your profile

• university degree in process engineering, chemical engineering, bioprocess engineering, environmental engineering, or similar
• experience in process simulation, preferably with Aspen Plus
• experience in programming, preferably Python
• basic knowledge about techno-economic and life cycle assessments
• basic knowledge about biofuel production or biomass processing
• independent and structured way of working
• excellent communication skills in English

Remuneration is up to the German TVöD 13 depending on qualifications and assigned tasks.

We offer

DLR stands for diversity, appreciation and equality for all people. We promote independent work and the individual development of our employees both personally and professionally. To this end, we offer numerous training and development opportunities. Equal opportunities are of particular importance to us, which is why we want to increase the proportion of women in science and management in particular. Applicants with severe disabilities will be given preference if they are qualified.We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy ID 1897) please contact :