Postdoctoral Position in Modelling and Optimization of Pyrolysis Plants with Integrated CO₂ Capture

Aarhus University; Denmark; On-site; DKK 520,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Aarhus University invites applications for a full‑time postdoctoral position in the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering to develop detailed models for pyrolysis plants coupled with CO2 capture (CCUS) and PtX systems, collaborating with ECA Engineering ApS in Aalborg.

You will build a modular simulation framework, validate against experimental data, and contribute to a web‑based user interface, with international collaboration and opportunities to publish in peer‑reviewed journals.

Qualifications

• PhD in chemical/energy engineering or closely related field.
• Experience developing unit operation and flowsheet models for chemical/energy systems.
• Experience with process simulation environments and software architectures.
• Knowledge of biomass pyrolysis and CO2 capture; CCUS/PtX familiarity is advantageous.
• Strong programming and numerical skills; ability to write clean, reusable code.
• Experience with Big Data/databases (SQL) and data-driven workflows.
• Familiarity with ML/AI techniques and uncertainty analysis is beneficial.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a cross-disciplinary team.
• Excellent English communication, written and spoken.
• Experience validating models with industrial data is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed, first-principles and semi-empirical models for key unit operations in biomass pyrolysis.
• Integrate models into a modular flowsheet within ECA Engineering’s platform for robust performance.
• Extend framework to include CCUS and PtX components for full-chain simulations.
• Design and run systematic simulation campaigns to study feedstock variability and conditions.
• Collaborate with experimental teams and industry partners for calibration and validation.
• Build and validate a carbon removal (CDR) assessment model for varying designs and feedstocks.
• Lead literature reviews on biomass pyrolysis and CCUS/PtX to inform model versions.
• Develop a web-based UI to expose models for external users and scenario analysis.
• Co-author peer-reviewed articles documenting the framework and its applications.
• Participate in meetings with stakeholders and present modelling insights.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Transport phenomena

Process modelling

Programming

Big Data (SQL)

ML/AI techniques

LCA / carbon accounting

Independent working

English communication

Validation with industrial data

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering/related field

Tools

Aspen Plus/HYSYS

gPROMS

Modelica

Python/Matlab frameworks

CAPE-OPEN

Job description

The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, invites applications for a postdoctoral position on advanced modelling and optimization of pyrolysis plants integrated with CO₂ capture (CCUS), conducted in close collaboration with ECA Engineering ApS in Aalborg. The position is sponsored by the Just Transition Fund to support green-transition initiatives in Northern Jutland. The goal of the project is to develop a state‑of‑the‑art digital tool for assessing and designing current and next‑generation pyrolysis plants and their interaction with CCUS and PtX systems. In addition, a tool capable for determining the Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) credits as a function of feedstock, location, pyrolysis process and technology and will be validated by real-world data.

You will be employed at the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, with primary workplace in Åbogade 40, at experimental facilities in Foulum and selected industrial pyrolysis plants with regular presence at ECA Engineering ApS in Aalborg.

Expected start date and duration of employment

The position is a full‑time postdoctoral position expected to start on 1 November 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter, and is fixed‑term until 31 October 2028.

Job description

The postdoctoral researcher will play a central role in the research and development activities of the project “Development of detailed models for the design and optimization of pyrolysis plants in interaction with CO₂ capture.”

You will drive the development of a comprehensive, modular simulation framework that links all major unit operations in the pyrolysis value chain with downstream CCUS and PtX technologies, implemented in ECA Engineering’s existing software platform.

Tasks

• Develop detailed, first‑principles and semi‑empirical models for all core unit operations in biomass pyrolysis plants (e.g. dryer, reactor, filters, scrubbers, electrostatic precipitators, tanks, gas dehumidification, engines) based on mass and energy balances and state‑of‑the‑art literature.
• Integrate these unit models into a coherent flowsheet within ECA Engineering’s existing software platform, ensuring robust numerical performance and interoperability.
• Extend the framework to include CCUS and PtX components (compressors, coolers, JT flash for CO₂ conditioning, storage tanks, pipeline transport, electrolysis/hydrogen production modules) to enable full-chain simulations of pyrolysis–CCUS–PtX systems.
• Design and execute systematic simulation campaigns to study the impact of feedstock variability, operating conditions, hydrogen addition, and downstream integration on synthesis gas yield, CO₂ emissions, process efficiency and fouling/“coatings” behaviour.
• Collaborate with Aarhus University’s experimental teams in Foulum and laboratory facilities to define experimental campaigns and use measured data for model calibration, validation and uncertainty analysis.
• Work closely with ECA Engineering and industrial partners operating full‑scale or pilot pyrolysis plants to obtain plant data, test model predictions, and translate modelling insights into concrete design and operating recommendations.
• Build and validate a CDR assessment model for pyrolysis plants of varying design and feedstocks, including software architecture and database, for eventual use as a new application.
• Lead the literature review on thermochemical conversion, biomass pyrolysis, coupled CCUS/PtX systems and relevant kinetic/transport models to underpin the successive model versions (V1–V3) envisioned in the project.
• Contribute to the implementation of a web‑based user interface that exposes the models to external users (engineers, operators, consultants, authorities) and supports scenario studies, sensitivity analysis and “worst‑case” decision support.
• Co‑author peer‑reviewed scientific articles documenting the modelling framework, its validation and application to real pyrolysis plants, in collaboration with ECA Engineering
• Participate in regular project meetings (weekly coordination, technical work sessions) and represent the modelling activities in interactions with external stakeholders, including authorities and potential software users.

The position is research‑oriented but has a strong applied and industrial dimension, with the explicit goal of delivering a validated, commercially relevant software tool that can be used by designers, investors and regulators when planning and assessing future pyrolysis projects.

The successful candidates will become part of a collaborative and international environment within the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering (BCE) at Aarhus University. The positions are mainly based at AU Viborg, home to BCE’s mid-TRL experimental facilities, which support the development and testing of sustainable technologies on pilot scale. Depending on the position, the work will involve a combination of experimental research, process simulation, reactor operation, and system‑level optimization.

Your profile

We are looking for an ambitious and technically strong candidate who is motivated by combining rigorous modelling with direct industrial impact in the green transition.

• A PhD in chemical engineering, process engineering, mechanical engineering, data science, computer science, energy engineering or a closely related field.
• Solid background in thermodynamics, transport phenomena, and process modelling and computer programming with documented experience in developing and applying unit operation and flowsheet models for chemical or energy systems.
• Experience with one or more process simulation and/or modelling environments (e.g. Aspen Plus/HYSYS, gPROMS, Modelica, Python/Matlab‑based frameworks) and an interest in working with various software architectures (e.g. CAPE-OPEN) and object‑oriented software platforms.
• Knowledge of thermochemical conversion of biomass (e.g. pyrolysis, gasification) and/or CO₂ capture technologies; familiarity with CCUS and PtX system integration will be considered a distinct advantage.
• Strong programming and numerical skills (e.g. in Python, C#, C++, or similar) and a keen interest in writing clean, well‑documented and reusable scientific code.
• Experience in building Big Data databases (e.g. SQL), managing large datasets, and querying / structuring in logical way and parametric simulation engines.
• Familiarity of machine learning / AI techniques and custom LLMs generation is beneficial.
• Knowledge of life cycle assessment (LCA) and LCA methods, carbon accounting and Carbon Direct Removal (CDR) approaches and analysis methodologies is viewed favorably.
• Ability to work independently and proactively while contributing constructively to a cross‑disciplinary team spanning academia, software development and industrial plant operation.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken, and an interest in engaging with external stakeholders, including plant operators, technology suppliers and authorities
• Experience with validation against industrial data, sensitivity/uncertainty analysis, or decision‑support tools for investors and regulators is an asset, as the project explicitly targets model‑based documentation to underpin future investments in large‑scale pyrolysis plants.

Who we are

The Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering was established on January 1, 2021, in connection with Aarhus University’s reorganization of the engineering area. The department employs around 175 people and is responsible for research and education within the department’s scientific areas. We educate both Bachelors and Master of Science in Engineering and around 825 students are enrolled in our study programs. Furthermore, we also offer an ambitious PhD program. Our PhD students have high academic ambitions and deliver high‑quality results for both the private and the public sectors.

At the Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, focus is on living systems, the biology of organisms, efficient production, and transformation of chemicals, materials and energy. We translate knowledge within biotechnology, food technology, environmental technology, chemical engineering, industrial biotechnology, medical biotechnology and electrochemical engineering, and more into new technologies and value‑creating solutions that can also be used in the business community.

Many of our research and development activities are based on companies' specific innovation needs or specialist application areas. Close collaboration with the public sector and private businesses ensures that the knowledge and technology generated in the department's research environments has a clear anchoring in reality and benefits the surrounding society. We also provide research‑based public sector consultancy and advice on technology in agriculture and food.

What we offer

• Access to well‑developed research infrastructure, including pilot-scale experimental facilities and state‑of‑the‑art laboratories.
• An interdisciplinary research environment spanning chemical engineering, catalysis, energy conversion, process systems and Power‑to‑X technologies.
• Opportunities to collaborate closely with national and international academic partners, as well as industrial stakeholders involved in an international consortium.
• A research culture that encourages open dialogue, innovation, and critical thinking across fields.
• A collegial and inclusive workplace with networking activities, knowledge sharing, and a commitment to team development.
• A strong focus on professionalism, equality, and work‑life balance, ensuring a healthy and productive working environment.

You will become part of a growing research initiative with real‑world impact and visibility and have the chance to contribute to shaping next‑generation sustainable technologies.

Place of work and area of employment

The positions include the following permanent workplace addresses Åbogade 40, 8200 Aarhus N (AU Åbogade)/ Burrehøjvej 43, 8830 Tjele (AU Viborg).

The area of employment is Aarhus University with affiliated institutions. Attendance at each workplace is as agreed with your immediate supervisor.

Contact information

For general inquiries about the postdoc position please contact: Associate Professor John William Phair ([e-mail])

Deadline

Applications must be received no later than 24 September 2026.

Salary and terms

Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions at basic salary steps 4-8.

We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.

Skills

• Chemical Engineering
• Carbon Capture
• Higher Education Research
• Mechanical Engineering
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Programming
• LCA
• Power-to-X (PtX)
• Thermodynamics