PhD Position Multiscale Modelling of Sorption-Enhanced CO2 Hydrogenation Reactors

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft); Delft; On-site; EUR 38,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Health insurance discount

Flexible schedules

TU Delft Graduate School

Job summary

Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) invites applications for a four-year PhD position within the CO2URAGE programme. The project focuses on developing multiphase models to predict hydrodynamics and heat/mass transfer in sorption‑enhanced CO2 hydrogenation reactors with electric heating.

The successful candidate will perform 3D simulations, validate with experiments, and work with colleagues from TU Delft, TNO, and partner companies.

Qualifications

• MSc in a relevant engineering/physical science field is required.
• Experience with reactor modelling and multiphase CFD simulations is essential.
• Analytical mindset with ability to question results and propose new questions.
• Ability to work both in a team and independently.
• Fluent in English; willingness to learn Dutch.

Responsibilities

• Develop three‑dimensional multiphase models for heat and mass transfer in complex reactors.
• Collaborate with TU Delft colleagues, TNO and industry partners for validation and integration.
• Assess heating options (electrical, microwave, electro‑acoustic) and model performance.

Skills

Reactor modeling

Multiphase CFD simulations

Critical thinking

Teamwork

English communication

Education

MSc degree in Mechanical engineering, Chemical engineering, Applied physics, or related field

Job description

Will your multiphase models shape the energy transition?

Job description

The research programme CO2URAGE, funded by the Dutch funding organisation NWO in the framework of the Perspectief Programme, targets the conversion of intermittent electricity to platform chemicals and fuels making use of dynamically operated processes. This is a promising route to alleviate net congestion and make more effective and economic use of renewable electricity without an unnecessary discarding of generated power. This four year’s PhD position is aimed at developing multiphase models to predict the dynamics and performance of sorption-enhanced CO2 hydrogenation reactors. An important feature is that the reactor should be heated electrically and should be scalable.

The PhD student will develop three-dimensional models to predict the hydrodynamics and heat/mass transfer in a complete reactor containing millions to billions of particles with basic wall heating. The precise type of reactor will be chosen in collabaration with other partners within this project. In case a (moving of fixed) bed is chosen, a coarse-grained CFD-DEM model or an Eulerian model will be developed, possibly making use of correlations from particle-resolved simulations. In case a fluidized bed is chosen, a traditional Eulerian Two-Fluid model (TFM) will be compared with a novel Lagrangian Continuous Particle Model (CPM). Initially, engineering correlations will be employed to describe the internal heat and mass transfer within the particles. Later, more accurate single-particle model results will be incorporated. The most suitable model will be expanded to investigate the efficiency of other electricity-based heating solutions such as microwave heating or electro-acoustic heating.

At TU Delft, the modelling work will be accompanied by another PhD student and postdoc who will carry out experimental work, which will allow for validation of the models. You will collaborate with experts from TU Delft, TNO and several large and SME companies involved in the programme.

Job requirements

• An MSc degree in Mechanical engineering, Chemical engineering, Applied physics, or related field is required.
• Knowledge and proven experience with reactor modeling and multiphase CFD simulations.
• A critical and inquisitive attitude with regard to obtained results is expected, which translates into formulating new research questions.
• Ability to function both in a team and independently.
• Good communication skills. Fluent in English, both spoken and written. Willing to learn the Dutch language.

TU Delft (Delft University of Technology)

Working at TU Delft means contributing to solutions that really make a difference.

For over 180 years, we have been training engineers who make an impact worldwide in companies, government bodies, or as entrepreneurs. Our alumni turn knowledge into concrete solutions for the challenges of today and tomorrow.

These challenges are changing rapidly. That is why we focus on themes such as energy, climate, digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), and smart mobility every day. Our education and research are directly aligned with what society needs now and in the future.

At TU Delft, our people make the difference. With their knowledge and curiosity, our staff provide a high-quality education and conduct pioneering research that extends beyond the campus. You will have the opportunity to take the initiative, work with others, and grow as a professional.

Working at TU Delft means join an international community of professionals and students. Together, we create knowledge, innovations, and solutions that help move the world forward.

Faculty Mechanical Engineering

From chip to ship. From machine to human being. From idea to solution. Driven by a deep-rooted desire to understand our environment and discover its underlying mechanisms, research and education at the ME faculty focusses on fundamental understanding, design, production including application and product improvement, materials, processes and (mechanical) systems.

ME is a dynamic and innovative faculty with high-tech lab facilities and international reach. It’s a large faculty but also versatile, so we can often make unique connections by combining different disciplines. This is reflected in ME’s outstanding, state-of-the-art education, which trains students to become responsible and socially engaged engineers and scientists. We translate our knowledge and insights into solutions to societal issues, contributing to a sustainable society and to the development of prosperity and well-being. That is what unites us in pioneering research, inspiring education and (inter)national cooperation.

Click here to go to the website of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Do you want to experience working at our faculty? These videos will introduce you to some of our researchers and their work.

Conditions of employment

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from €3204 - €4051 gross per month, from the first year to the fourth year based on a fulltime contract (38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.

As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.

The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.

Will you need to relocate to the Netherlands for this job? TU Delft is committed to make your move as smooth as possible! The HR unit, Coming to Delft Service, offers information on their website to help you prepare your relocation. In addition, Coming to Delft Service organises events to help you settle in the Netherlands, and expand your (social) network in Delft. A Dual Career Programme is available, to support your accompanying partner with their job search in the Netherlands.

Additional information

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof.dr.ir. Johan T. Padding, [e-mail].